Michael Martin Tournament a Success

MOUNT OLIVE- The 25th Annual Michael Martin Memorial Golf Tournament was held on Thursday, August 16, in memory of NC Highway Patrolman, Michael Martin, a University of Mount Olive alumnus who was killed in the line of duty. The event supports student scholarships and the Trojan Club at University of Mount Olive.

Tournament Coordinator Neil Price who works with Friendly Mart, the underwriting sponsor of the tournament, said, “I would really like to extend a special thanks to our vendors and suppliers as they are an integral part of making the tournament the success it is through their monetary support and participation. We also want to thank those who donated to our raffle. Local businesses truly showed their dedication to the community and to the students at University of Mount Olive. We couldn’t do it without their support.”

This year’s event featured Long Drive Champion David Mobley.  “We never dreamed Mobley would be as well received as he turned out to be,” Price said.  “He really entertained and helped to bring the tournament to a new level this year and going forward. Also, the sponsorship of the car for a hole in one by Sale Auto Mall was very well received.”

According to initial reports, this year’s tournament proceeds will top $50,000, bringing the 25-year total to over $490,000.

First flight winners were:   Scotty Smith, Mitchell Quinn, Michael Quinn and Glen Holmes.   Second flight winners were:  Charlie Byrd, Bryce Ficken, Heath Whitfield and Cole Byrd.

Vice President for Institutional Advancement at University of Mount Olive Dr. John Blackwell, stated, “The fellowship and joy at the Michael Martin Tournament were a heartwarming inspiration. I was able to witness the greater MOC community at its best.  I am deeply grateful to A.N. Martin, Neil Price, Bill Clingan and all of the vendors and participants that made this event happen.”

University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The College, sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists, has locations in Mount Olive, New Bern, Wilmington, Goldsboro, Research Triangle Park, Washington, and Jacksonville.  For more information, visit www.moc.edu.