The 31st Annual Higgins Classic, presented by BD and Greenberg Traurig, took place on Monday, June 21, 2021. It was a hot, but beautiful day at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club in Bedminster, NJ, with 220 golfers in attendance. The tournament was held on the prestigious River and Meadow courses.
While on the course, golfers were welcomed by Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) athletes, Bobby Fredericks and Johnny McCormack, something that was greatly missed in 2020, due to COVID-19 pandemic. We also welcomed back two Unified partner foursomes featuring SONJ athletes Lindsay Allen, Hali Williams, Chris McMullen and Luke Conticchio.
Guests enjoyed tips from the NJPGA, Nike gifts, a silent online auction and raffle which included fabulous experiences, foursomes at top New Jersey golf courses and more, chances to win some valuable prizes on the contest holes and comradery with friends and colleagues.
After a great day of golf, committee member, Doug Pridgen addressed the group as MC, followed by President & CEO of SONJ, Heather Andersen and Committee Chair, Chris Johnson, who thanked the Higgins Classic Committee and shared a special story on why he’s involved in supporting SONJ. Golfers were offered a wide variety of fresh seafood, mouth-watering meats, cheeses, salads, sides and much more during the savory buffet-style dinner!
Board of Trustees member and SONJ athlete, Morgan Hulteen gave an inspiring speech, thanking participants for supporting her and her fellow athletes. Morgan also shared how SONJ helped her friends stay connected during the pandemic.
Sponsors were recognized with plaques that featured the phrase, “The Comeback is Stronger than the Setback”, a theme that resonates within SONJ due to the strong support of companies and businesses who continued to support the organization over this difficult year.
Thank you to our in-kind sponsors, WB Wood, Maplecrest Ford and NJ Beach Badge Vodka who provided services that truly enhanced the event.
This incredible fundraiser raised nearly $250,000, all to benefit thousands of SONJ athletes and Unified partners across the Garden State.
Thank you to all who attended and the 40+ businesses that supported the event! Be sure to save the date for next year – June 20, 2022!