Derek and Christy Graf of Valparaiso had always looked forward to playing in the Valparaiso Parks Foundation Creekside Classic when their children were old enough. Today, they finally made their dream a reality, hitting the greens with their children, Tyler, 12 and Alyssa, 13.
“I used to work for the parks department," Christy said. "We’ve always wanted to come out and show our support. Now that our children are old enough, here we are.”
Currently in its 19th consecutive year, the annual Creekside Classic provides area kids the opportunity to play in a real shotgun start, best ball outing. Set to benefit the Valpo Parks Foundation, this fun-filled day of golf sees participants receiving a Creekside Classic t-shirt, with awards, food, swag and fun, including an ice cream and root beer after party. The event was made possible in part due to the generous sponsorship of Valpo Parks Foundation partners, such as Currie Motors Ford of Valpo, Porter Regional Hospital, Centier Bank, General Insurance Services, NITCO, Vale Park Animal Hospital, and many more.
John Seibert, Director of Parks for Valparaiso Parks Department says that the event has become very popular, and sells out every year.
“A lot of times, you’ll see adults playing to support different causes, but this is one where we have adults enjoying a round of golf with their children,” said Seibert. “It’s something that we saw being done in some other cities back in the 90s, so we decided to try it here, too.
Children ages 12 and under were invited to begin the day with a skills competition. Following the competition, juniors and adults kicked in into high gear with a shotgun start and best ball tournament.
Seibert said that, due to COVID-19, this year’s Classic might look a little bit different than previous years, but with no less fun.
“In this unique time, we wanted to be as cautious as possible, so we have facemasks and hand sanitizer. We are trying to take every precaution possible, while still being able to put on an event that can be enjoyed by everyone,” Seibert said.
“Golf is a good, socially distant activity by nature anyway.”
Capped at 25 foursomes, the event featured 9-hole course, with a 3-hole practice.
Funds raised at the Creekside Classic go to supporting the Valpo Parks Foundation. The parks foundation supports a variety of activities in the community year-round and funds raised go towards ensuring the continuous success of those programs. Seibert expects this year’s event to bring in more than $30,000, due to the sponsorship and generosity of the community they serve.
Seibert personally acknowledged the importance of that community involvement.
“If there’s excellence in this system, it’s because of the community engagement, whether that’s through participation or donations. We are a product of their generosity.”
Christy Graf and her husband, Derek were all smiles as they walked up to the greens.
“It’s a really nice way to get the family out, get some fresh air and support a really great cause,” said Graf.
For more information about the Valparaiso Parks Department, visit them online at https://www.valpoparks.org/
