MONROE, N.C. -- When Chris Justice, news anchor for WCNC-TV, started his Golf Classic benefit five years ago, 19 teams competed, and he was thrilled to raise nearly $20,000 for the Special Olympics of Mecklenburg and Union counties. Now in its fifth year, a sell-out of 64 teams will compete September 19 at the Rolling Hills Country Club in Monroe. It's expected the event will raise more than $60,000 with the help of eight major sponsors, including Hanson Brick.

"We thought we couldn't be any more successful than when in our second year of the tournament, we doubled the money we gave to Special Olympics," says Justice. "But in our third year, Hanson Brick joined us as the top sponsor, and we have had a sell-out of 64 teams ever since. There is no question that when Hanson Brick joined us, it was single greatest addition to our tournament."

Teams compete for more than 300 prizes, donated in part from area businesses. They are also treated to an event shirt, bag and breakfast or lunch, catered by companies such as Wolf Gang Puck, Harris Teeters and Dunkin' Donuts.

Hanson Brick donates $15,000 each year to ensure the success of the event. "We are honored to have been a part of this event for the past three years," says Mike Donahue, president and chief executive officer of Hanson Brick. "It's always a great day of golfing, where it's less about what you score, but that your participation helps the inspirational Special Olympics athletes in our community."

Chris Justice's younger brother Tad inspired him to start the annual event. Tad, who has Down's Syndrome, has always loved participating in Special Olympics. "It has been one of the many joys in his life," says Justice. "I remember when Tad would come home from a Special Olympics event, he had us re-enact the awards ceremony in our living room so that we could watch him get his medals."

Justice had always wanted to give back to Special Olympics, and when a friend suggested a golf tournament, they were off and running. A tournament committee of two soon grew to a committee of 30.

For more information about the Chris Justice Golf Classic, visit www.justiceclassic.org.

For more information contact:
Amanda M. Godwin
agodwin@purdierogers.com
206-628-7700