Junior golf clinic a ripping success

More than 850 kids came out to Silver Oak Golf Course in Carson City on Sunday afternoon for the eighth annual Fred Alexander Memorial Junior Golf Clinic, the result of the largest pre-registration in the event's history.

The free clinic, presented by the Fred and Judy Alexander Foundation in conjunction with the Sierra Nevada Chapter of the PGA, was open to juniors throughout Northern Nevada. It is named after Fred Alexander, an avid golfer and big supporter of junior golf.

"We are always happy when we see new faces at the clinic, knowing that we are introducing even more juniors to the game of golf as the years go by," said event organizer Shelly Godken-Wright, who founded the clinic eight years ago along with Judy Alexander.

During Sunday's event, junior golfers were introduced to the different aspects of golf, including putting, the long game and the short game. Participants received free lunch, a golf club, t-shirt and a fanny pack filled with prizes. There was also a small segment on the rules and etiquette of golf.

Brian Pavlet, the Pinnacle National Long Drive champion, also performed an exhibition for the kids.

Forty PGA professionals were on hand to provide free individual instructions to the participants. Members of the UNR men's golf team were also out at Silver Oak volunteering their time.

In addition to m foundation, dozens of local companies and golf industry partners donated to the event.

"This day would not be possible without the great support of our sponsors, many of whom are local businesses wanting to give back to others through the game of golf," Godeken-Wright said. "To them, we are forever grateful."

Silver Oak Golf Course provided the facilities and staffing for the event.

"We sure enjoy hosting the clinic at Silver Oak's Golf Course," said Silver Oak director of golf Tom Duncan, who is also the coach at UNR "We realize that when kids are introduced to the game of golf in a fun and relaxed environment, their chance of continuing with the sport increases."

Local United States Golf Association representative Hal Cutler was also on hand to present a $24,000 check to the Fred and Judy Alexander Foundation. The funds will be used to support future clinics and help offset costs for purchasing equipment that will assist young golfers with disabilities. Also presenting the donation was Scott Humphrey, the executive director of the Northern California PGA Section.

The foundation plans to present the clinic again next spring.