By Kate Bartlett
Join PGA and Custom Turf on Saturday September 9th, from 12-5pm for the 3rd annual Par Crawl hosted by establishments across Ellicottville. The 18-hole putting challenge is the golf version of a bar crawl, and the only event of its kind in the area.
The event was first held in 2021 when Steve Beattie (owner Custom Turf) thought of the idea for a golf style bar crawl. He pitched his idea to the regional WNY PGA, and they collaborated to create this successful event. Now in its third year, the event raises funds with 100% of proceeds donated to PGA HOPE WNY, which impacts lives through the game of golf with programs serving military veterans, youth, and diverse individuals.
Molly Mars, work fellow with PGA in WNY, is excited to be a part of this event. “It’s such a unique and fun event. Everyone can participate no matter your age or skill level. It’s more about spending quality time with the people you’re with than competition. The focus is on having fun and relaxing, while raising money for a good cause.”
This year’s locations include Holiday Valley, EVL Indoor Golf Studio, Madigan’s, EVL Depot, Balloons, and Villaggio. Putting greens will be set up at each location with a range in difficulty, but mostly beginner level. Each bar will feature drink specials. Most locations are within walking distance in the village, with the exception of EVL Indoor Golf, the Depot and Holiday Valley, which are in close proximity from each other.
Steve is proud of the success of the event over the years. “I love the idea of supporting such a great cause to help Veterans and disadvantaged children access the game of golf.”
Tickets are $20 and include entry into all raffles, so participants are likely to go home with some swag. Raffles will be pulled throughout the day and include prizes such as a Glen Oak Foursome, an overnight at the Inn or Tamarack Club, 2 days of Golf at Holiday Valley, T Squared Putter, OnCore Golf Bags and more. The Grand Prize Raffle is a white Yeti Tundra 45 Hard Cooler with a case of adult beverages. Event attendance is not required to win raffles.
Guests can purchase tickets the day of at any participating location, and there’s no limit to the number of participants. “It’s very laid back. People can start at any location and hop around as they please. There’s no cut off to participants, and they can stop whenever they’d like, not needing to complete all 18 holes. It’s a great way to spend the day in the beautiful surroundings of Ellicottville.”
Tickets can be purchased through WNY PGA at Glen Oak by calling (716) 626-7095 or on location at any participating bar on the day of the event. For ticket delivery, contact Steve at (716) 945-0283