Bearskin Airlines Charity Golf Classic raises nearly $50,000
Tim Brody - Editor
Twenty-six teams competed in the 22nd Bearskin Airlines Charity Golf Classic on June 20 at the Sioux Lookout Golf and Curling club, raising $49,237.40 for the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre Foundation.
The charity golf tournament, which supports the health centre and has supported other local initiatives in Sioux Lookout over the years, was established by the late Harvey Friesen, former president of Bearskin Airlines.
Sponsored by Bearskin Airlines, the event, which included both live and silent auctions, was organized by a local committee headed up by Niels Madsen.
“The legacy continues year after year. Niels has spearheaded it again, of course and Bearskin of course, is a big backer. It’s wonderful the accumulation of nearly $50,000 flowing into Meno Ya Win, makes it much better for the patients as we go forward. The foundation is extremely grateful,” shared Terry Jewell, Foundation president.
Finishing first in the 18 hole, four person team, best shot charity golf tournament was the Al’s Sports Excellence team, which included Allan Lago, Gib Ariano, Rob Favot, and Joe Carbone.
Carbone said of participating in the event, “It’s always great to participate and be involved in something that is enjoyable and is raising money for our hospital. Harvey was someone who was near and dear to us… he was so instrumental in contributing back to the community.”
Finishing in second place was Team Hoey, made up of Austen Hoey, Matt Monkman, Luc Beaulne, and Jake MacRae.
Finishing in third place was the Madsen GM team of John Madsen, Niels Madsen, George Badanai, and Bob David.
“I thought the day went well. We were blessed with beautiful weather... we get tremendous support from the community… it makes me feel good to do something like this when I see the kind of support we get. It’s tremendous,” Niels Madsen shared, concluding, “I would like to thank everyone, particularly the committee members who helped organize this event, all the staff here at the golf course, all our sponsors, we had tremendous support… I’d like to thank everyone for coming.”