On Saturday, August 27, the thirteenth annual JL Challenge was held at Spring Hills Golf Course. This is the annual fundraising event for the Jerry Loyola Foundation whose mission is to provide quality of life support for families battling cancer and promote junior golf within the community. The foundation honors the memory of Jerry Loyola, a great young man and talented golfer with a promising future ahead of him. Jerry lost his battle with cancer in 2009 at the tender age of 24. Wheeler Accountants’ Dennis Campbell has supported this organization by providing income tax preparation services since its inception. The firm has continued this tradition since 2017 and is recognized as a major sponsor.
The format for this event was a three player scramble, with Team Wheeler consisting of Steve Stringari, Michael Gurr and Dennis Campbell. In the gross flight, there was a tie for first place with a 14 under par score of 57. Rudy Ortega, Scott Ogden and Kenny Mensch were declared winners by a scorecard playoff over Gary Yoro, Jack Hoenes and Ryan Mock. The net flight was won by Andy Rogers, Bill Mullins and Todd Glo with a net score of 58.
Since the Covid-19 social distancing protocols have been relaxed, the event was able to return to a shotgun start and featured a raffle, live auction and a dinner catered by D’La Colmena. The event, once again, was a huge success and enabled the foundation to continue its mission. The individual event known as the “Battle for the Belt” will be held later in the year.
It was a great sunny enjoyable day for all who participated. The tradition of this event and its support for this great cause will continue in our community for many years to come!