by Scott Agness | @ScottAgness
September 23, 2013
More than one hundred golfers made it out to the golf course on Monday for the Pacers annual Golf Outing at the Brickyard Crossing Golf Club presented by Katz, Sapper, & Miller. 32 teams in all hit the links for the event, which benefited the Pacers Foundation. About $100,000 was expected to be raised.
“It’s important to be out here,” said Pacers swingman Paul George. “I was excited to come out here. It’s always fun.”
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Last year, George and George Hill hung around a pond on the course with their fishing rods. After talking to the gathered media, George ran the putting contest and then was a hit during the live auction.
Of the four live auction items, having George come to the winner's house bearing Pacers-related gifts and to play basketball drew the largest donation. Sports Graphics CEO Frank Hancock raised his hand last, winning the coveted prize. The other live auction items were the French Lick golf experience, dinner for 10 on center court at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, and dinner for four with the entire coaching staff at Ruth’s Chris Steak House.
Star Financial’s group fired a 57—15 under par—for the low round of the day and win the event for the second consecutive year. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s entry placed second and Katz, Sapper & Miller finished in third.
“Yeah you can’t beat a day like today, in particular,” Pacers coach Frank Vogel said. “Just gorgeous weather and get a chance to be outside and swing the golf clubs a little bit and interact with our fans.”
Though none of the players golfed, most challenged one another on the putting green. Lance Stephenson had the most success, sinking a 20-footer three times.
“Not much of a golfer at all but I mean it’s a great cause, getting the guys out here and kinda getting a feel for each other,” said newcomer Donald Sloan.
Pacers forward Luis Scola arrived in Indianapolis late last week after playing with the Argentina National Team in FIBA Americas Championship to qualify for the 2014 World Championships. He is still getting familiarized with his new team and new city.
“This is the first thing I’m doing officially so we can say I’m a Pacer right now.”
Like most of the team, Chris Copeland, another newbie, is ready to throw on his practice jersey and see what this season has in store.
“We’re excited about the season,” he said to the golfers before they headed out onto the course. “We’re looking forward to good things and just glad to be here. This team is really, really about winning and being part of a successful season.”
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