On Saturday, June 20, 88 players representing Grant and Harney counties teed it up at the Retreat, Links & Spa at Silvies Valley Ranch in an 18-hole team competition to claim bragging rights for one year and raise money for the local high school golf teams.

Grant County proved to be the winning team with a 62.15 scoring average in a scramble format. However, the big winners were the John Day and Burns high school golf teams!  The winning team was to receive 60 percent, with 40 percent going to the runner-ups. The goal of this inaugural event was to raise $10,000. The local communities stepped up in a big way. In the spirit of harmony, Ron Lundbom and Scott Smyth, coaches and team captains, agreed to split approximately $20,000.

This annual event was conceived by Dr. Scott and Mrs. Sandy Campbell.

According to Dr. Campbell, “It is a way for Silvies to give back to the community, support our youth, grow the game of golf, and introduce Silvies to the surrounding areas. We are already looking forward to the Second annual Harney vs Grant Battle next year.”

“I want to thank Dr. Campbell, Roger Porzak, and the entire staff at Silvies Valley Ranch for the warm welcome and wonderful event that benefited our students in the two high school golf programs,” Burns High School golf coach Scott Smyth said. “It was heart warming seeing how many people came together to support kids in our community and have a good time doing it. I believe everyone enjoyed the facilities and the event. With all that has happened in the last year, the money will help provide students the opportunity to learn and experience the game of golf. Again, I want to thank Dr. Campbell for opening the gates to have this event and thank everyone for opening their hearts and wallets for our kids in Grant and Harney counties.”