Scramble with the Navy League

By Brian Livingston / staff writer

May 09, 2008 12:48 am

— Jamie Williams of the Meridian Area Navy League can remember exactly where he was when he learned Ponta Creek Golf Course might have to close due to financial concerns.
"It was a little more than five years ago and I was playing a round with then NAS Meridian commander Capt. Jeff Dickman," said Williams. "We had our sons with us and on hole 13 he told me about why the course may have to close. I thought it would be a shame so out of that conversation the Meridian Area Navy League Invitational was born."
This weekend will mark the fifth anniversary of the tournament that has done much to promote the course getting golfers from all over the area to come and support the facility. It is something Williams and the league is proud of.
"We, the people in Meridian, are known worldwide for our staunch support of our military," said Williams. "Many models of how the general population and the military should work together are drawn from people observing the successes we've had here in eastern Mississippi."
The two-person scramble will be held at Ponta Creek Golf Course Saturday beginning with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. sharp. The tournament is for 27 holes with teams being flighted after nine holes. Entry fee is $75 per person.
Lunch will be included with golfers having their choice of catfish or chicken along with all the trimmings.
Williams urges everyone to help support the golf course and to introduce the sprawling facility to those who may not have ever teed off on the links.
"The fundraiser has turned into a money maker for us as we provide scholarships for students," said Williams. "But we also want to continue to promote the use of the course. The course basically has to be self-sufficient so events like this helps ensure it is there for everyone to enjoy."

For more information
Contact: Ponta Creek Pro Shop at 601-679-2526 or Jamie Williams at 601-485-0688, ext. 225.