SunBird Men’s Golf Association news and happenings

Norman Ott

As we head into the holiday season and the time of the year when many new residents, renters, and returning snowbirds continue to arrive, the SunBird Men’s Golf Club (Association) wishes to invite all golfers who are new or not yet members of the club to consider joining. The Men’s Club provides the opportunity to participate in weekly (Thursday) tournaments which include gross/net stroke play, scrambles, and other formats at the discretion of the tournament committee. All events are handicapped, so all skill levels have a chance to win prizes. Participation in the club is a great way to play some competitive golf at your skill level and make some new friends along the way. Membership in the club does require a membership in the Arizona Golf Association and its GHIN handicap system. Having a handicap allows the player to participate in many other golf groups and events, such as several couples groups, nine-hole groups, special independent and club groups, and in other sponsored tournaments where handicaps are required. For more details on the Men’s Club activities, you are welcome and encouraged to attend any of the monthly business meetings that are held on the first Tuesday of each month in the clubhouse ballroom, east end, at 9 a.m.

For those who are already members, 2020 dues are due by Dec. 15. The dues are $50 if paid online at www.azgolf.org or $55 if paid in the pro shop. If dues are not paid by the due date, the member will be placed on the inactive list and will not receive a handicap until the dues are paid. When paid after Dec. 15, the dues will be $55 and $60, respectively. For questions, contact Membership Chairman Fred Garmeson at 480-895-9363.

Looking ahead to the remainder of the 2019-20 season, of special note is the SunBird Open tournament which will be held on Saturday, Jan. 4. This tournament is a fundraising event for the golf course and is one of the most significant and important fundraisers of the year. Get your foursome and sign up in the pro shop or sign up as an individual and get assigned to a foursome.

Also, in addition to the regular Thursday tournaments, there are some special events planned or in the schedule. Some of these will be the SunBird Cup, the Club Championship, a match play shoot out, and a home and home tournament with a neighboring golf course. Please check the Men’s Club bulletin board near the pro shop for dates, times, and other details.