CHAIRMAN’S LETTER

Dear Members and Guests,

The end of the year brings the traditional season of giving. Yet, throughout the past year, I have been touched by the many expressions of generosity within our ClubCorp communities by our Members, Guests, Employee Partners, clubs, and resorts. Their charitable acts have enriched the lives of many. And it likely comes as no surprise that many of these good deeds have taken the form of charity golf tournaments. Also coming as no surprise to many of you is a basic fact: The best of intentions do not ensure a successful (read: moneymaking) fund-raising event.

So earlier this year, members of our golf committee introduced an effort to help first-time tournament hosts — and even experienced event planners — to organize and conduct successful charity golf tournaments.

The educational seminar is called "Golf Tournaments 101."

The golf seminars are being conducted by our golf pros from our country clubs and resorts, but they are not limited by golf membership. Many of our pros are teaming with business clubs because of the demand by those Members (and their Guests) for the same guidance in conducting fund-raising tournaments.

Attendees at the initial seminars have represented a cross section of their communities, including charities, schools, sports teams, religious organizations, fund-raising organizations, professional organizations, and police and fire departments. And while most participants intend to organize charity golf tournaments, others come from corporations wanting to host client appreciation or networking type tournaments. Whatever their motivation, however, they know that successful planning is in the details. And many want to overcome the "fear factor" of a first-time planner.

The "Golf Tournaments 101" seminar provides attendees with a well-rounded presentation of the necessary components of running a successful tournament. Topics of discussion include choosing formats, recruiting golfers, determining entry fees, using volunteers, setting a schedule, planning food and beverage, selling sponsorships, and more. The program often includes exhibits by area vendors who display goods and services — such as golf tournament photography, tee signs, trophies, and awards — that might be helpful to the tournament planner. And, typically, the seminar features a guest speaker who provides additional insights into running a more profitable and professional tournament.

I started this letter with an observation about your generosity. We hope that, by offering "Golf Tournaments 101," we not only enhance your charitable endeavors but also continue to build our relationship with you. Just call your home club for details. And, please, accept this gift from us.

Happy Holidays,
Robert H. Dedman Jr.
Chairman of the Board
ClubCorp