SFS makes golf more interesting

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Angela Shepherd
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
Gas masks, flak vests, Kevlar helmets and UXOs were a common sight around base a couple of weeks ago during the Phase II ORE.

But last week, all of these things and more were back in play in a not so typical environment - the golf course.

More than 25 players endured various obstacles and challenges Aug. 18 as part of the 4th Security Forces Squadron's combat golf tournament.

"We chose to have a combat golf tournament because normal golf is boring," said Staff Sgt. Jason McQuarrie, the tournament organizer. "We wanted to give people a challenge and give the guys who don't play that well a chance to win. You can be one of the best golfers around, but it doesn't mean you'll do well in combat golf."

Some of the day's challenges had players teeing off while wearing a gas mask or full combat gear, while others had players teeing off from sand boxes and off the back of a deuce truck. Still others required players to keep their ball from landing in a UXO-marked area or a minefield.

One hole even came equipped with a drill instructor that yelled and sprayed water guns to distract players.

Taking top honors in the tournament was the team who dubbed themselves "The Misfits," made up of Maj. Grant Hargrove, Capt. John Tesar, 1st Lt. Chris Hagemeyer and Chief Master Sgt. Charles Meador, all of the 4th SFS.

But the fun didn't stop once the 18 holes were played through. Players also had a shot at winning $25,000.

After the tournament was over, 15 tickets were drawn, and the holders of those tickets made their best efforts to get a hole in one on the ninth hole. Anyone who made it would've won the money, but unfortunately, the closest shot landed about five feet from the hole.

All in all, the day's events raised a little more than $700 for the SFS Association, which will be used for events such as Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas parties, retirements and squadron picnics.

"The day went really well," Sgt. McQuarrie said. "The weather held up, everyone had a great time, and everybody went home with some type of prize."