The Tribune

THE Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association held its 21st Annual Golf Tournament at the prestigious Royal Blue Golf Club at Baha Mar on Sunday, November 17.

The tournament supports BHTA's workforce development programmes and scholarships for students whose studies fall within the gamut of the hospitality industry.

"We were so pleased to once again see a high level of participation from players as well as corporate sponsors and supporters. This tournament continues to grow and gain notoriety as being one of the most enjoyable, organised and well-executed tournaments held in New Providence," said Carlton Russell, president of the BHTA. "Once again, many tourism stakeholders and ancillary businesses who are intricately linked to the industry have come together to support a worthy cause. We were especially pleased to see local Tru Tru Bahamian entrepreneurs, who we invite to every BHTA event possible, interact and link with tourism representatives, as we continue to support and promote linkages between this sector of our economy, and the tourism industry."

Golfers enjoyed a beautiful day on the Royal Blue course, vying for a cadre of incredible prizes, including staycations at premier Bahamian resorts throughout The Bahamas, extravagant dinner experiences, excursions, gift items and more. Corporate sponsors set up interactive "fun stations" at several holes on the course, where golfers could enjoy refreshments, music and giveaways. The culmination of friendly competition, libation stations and prizes valued in excess of $10,000 has made this tournament one of the most successful, highly anticipated annual golf tournaments in New Providence. The prestigious title of "Winners of the BHTA's 21st Annual Golf Tournament" was awarded to Neale Jones and Tony Aranha who walked away with the top team designation and staycation prizes at Ocean Club.

A tie breaker saw 2nd place go to Glenn Haddad and Eric Price with a mere point separating 3rd place winners Ricky Davis and Bradley Strachan.

Other winners included men's and women's longest drive which went to Neale Jones and Krystal MacKenzie and men's closest to the pin which went to John Kinger.

The Best Dressed Booth was awarded to Royal Fidelity who has won this award numerous times in the past.

Two newcomers to the tournament, Blackbeards Revenge, a new attraction featuring an exciting Pirate Ship excursion along Nassau Harbour and Margaritaville Beach Resort at the Pointe, Nassau took 2nd and 3rd place respectively for their booths.

The BHTA Golf Tournament was supported by a wide range of sponsors.