Some early birds get the worm.
But registering early for the Kelly Smith Memorial Golf Tournament garnered Sheila Ann Van Gisbergen a much bigger reward – a 2016 Nissan Micra.
The Aug. 12 fundraiser at Glacier Greens sold out for the first time in six years, “All due to Nissan for giving a car away, just for registering early,” said tourney co-ordinator Jerry Snook, a 19 Wing firefighter.
The event is held in memory of fellow 19 Wing firefighter Kelly Smith, who was a deputy chief with the department when he died unexpectedly of a heart attack at age 52. This year’s tourney raised $13,700 for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
Comox Valley Nissan sales manager Scott Arnink presented Van Gisbergen with the keys to her new Micra. Nissan also sponsored two hole-in-ones with a vehicle as a prize. Coastal Transportation & Storage sponsored two hole-in-ones with a prize of $5,000 while Comox Fire Rescue raised almost $500 by providing hot dogs, pop and water for donations.
KP prizes for both men and women were provided by Bryce Hansen of Re/Max Realty, Guillevin International and National Car Sales. Long drive prize for men and women were provided by Colin Hanes of Re/Max Realty.
The winners of the tourney were Nick Whyte, Trevor Fritz, Snook and Alex Grieve. They received their trophy from Tara Smith, daughter of Kelly Smith.
Winners of the Capt. Stewart Rennie Memorial Trophy were Colin Maclean, Caleb House, Adam Ravenstein and Randy Koepa. Rennie was a member of the Comox Fire Department who passed away due to a heart attack. His wife, Deidra Rennie, presented the trophy.