Community Galvano Golf Classic Already a Sellout

Bill Galvano and Manatee Rural Health CEO Mickey Presha photo: Brian David Braun

BRADENTON – The 16th Annual Phil Galvano Golf Classic isn't until May 18, but the popular outing is already sold out, and organizers are expecting over $280,000 in sponsorships and donations, the largest amount in the event's history.

"The tournament is sold out and we are expecting a record amount of more than $210,000 in sponsorships and approximately $70,000 in in-kind donations by tournament's end," Mary Glass, Executive Director of the Manatee Education Foundation (MEF) said in a release last week. "We are thrilled with the amount of support the tournament has drawn this year. It is a strong statement as to how much our community supports public education."

The golf classic at Lakewood Ranch's Legacy Golf Club benefits Manatee County's public schools by funding the Manatee Education Foundation, whose main giving initiative is the Ca$h for the Cla$$room Grant Program. The MEF seeks to provide funding for programs and enhanced educational opportunities for Manatee County Public Schools teachers and students, beyond what is allocated in state dollars.

While Foursome sponsorships sold out, the MEF says that specialty sponsorships are still available in the range of $500 to $2,000. Local resident and legendary golfer, Tony Jacklin, is scheduled to be on hand again this year, greeting golfers prior to the shotgun start at 1 p.m.

New to this year's tournament, top-sponsors will get to enjoy an exclusive lunch, as well as a private round of golf with Emmy Award-winning actor Armand Assante at the Longboat Key Club and Resort. They will be joined by Bill Galvano, a former member of the Florida House of Representatives and candidate for State Senate.