Don Leen Memorial golf tournament coming up

PONDERAY — The eighth annual Don Leen Memorial golf tournament, which benefits the Elks’ “Hook a Kid on Golf” program, will be held Saturday, July 19, at 9 a.m. at the Sandpoint Elks Golf Course.

The Hook a Kid on Golf program helps youths from the age of 8 to 12 years old learn the game of golf. This year, there are 40 youths signed up for the program. In addition to a week of lessons provided by volunteers, the program also provides golf clubs for them to keep, lessons, hats and shirts to athletes looking to take up the sport. The Don Leen tournament raises funds to help make sure this is possible. The program, which started in 2012, has helped over 380 youth athletes become interested in golf since its inception. Last year, the tournament raised $8,400 and tournament organizers are looking to raise even more this year. In addition to the tournament, raffle items will be up for grabs as well.

The tournament will be held in an 18 hole, four-man scramble format and is $75 per person (includes green fees and food). Golf carts are separate, but can be reserved. Prizes will be awarded for the tournament winners, the longest putt, the most accurate drive, and the closest to the pin. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and tee time is 9. Pre-registration is encouraged. To register, call the Elks Pro Shop at 208-263-4321.