It’s been a long time since the Bradford Board of Trade (BBT) last hosted a golf tournament.
That’s why the BBT called the tournament, held at The Club at Bond Head on Friday, its inaugural ‘Open for Business’ tourney.
“This is our first in a long time,” said BBT Chief Administrative Officer Tricia Barrett-Butler. In fact, there’s been no BBT tourney in all the years she’s been employed at the board.
Members decided the tournament would be more than a day on the links, or a fundraiser for the board. Instead, the goal was to promote networking and provide an “innovative promotional opportunity.”
In addition to sponsorships, a prize table, and silent auction, businesses could also sponsor special awards at seven of the holes – including two hole-in-one packages and prizes for the longest drive and longest putt.
The day got off to an early start, with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. Golfers were back at the clubhouse relatively early for a networking luncheon and awards.
Sixty golfers signed up for the inaugural tourney, Barrett-Butler said.
“We’re excited It’s a great start, and it’s a great group," she said.
BBT President Tina Morrison was on hand to assist, but not to golf.
“I just greet them,” said Morrison, whlle waiting by the first hole. “This is the first time I’ve been on a golf course!”
She credited BBT members and the golf tournament committee with creating the signature event.
“The golf tourney, for us, is to build membership and what better way than to get a day off work and go golfing?” Morrison said.
