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Drew and Heath Ekstrom will once again team up to raise funds for the Folds of Honor Foundation. Photo courtesty of Heath Eckstrom
Superior National is once again gearing up for their annual “George Nelson Challenge Cup” event on September 11, and once again, Drew and Heath Ekstrom will attempt their 100 plus holes challenge the next day, Sunday the 12th, in celebration of Patriot’s Golf Day, which is September 2 this year.
“This will be our sixth year playing as many holes as we can play in one day,” said Superior National Business Manager/Head Golf Professional Heath Ekstrom. “Last year, we each golfed 126 holes together. That’s 252 holes total, and we raised over $8,800 for the Folds of Honor Foundation.”
That brought their five-year fundraising total to around $34,000.
In 2019 Heath and Drew, who is also a PGA member, raised over $7,600 for Folds of Honor. Unfortunately, Drew had to make the four-hour drive home, so he left after completing 116 holes. Meanwhile, Heath soldiered on, achieving an astounding 144 holes. Heath and Drew started at 6:15 a.m., and Drew finished in the dark, listening for the ball to hit the ground so he could find it and play on. Now that’s dedication!
Patriot’s Golf Day is celebrated across the country. It raises money for the Folds of Honor Foundation, which provides scholarships for spouses and children of military members who have been disabled or killed while serving the country.
On June 22, 2019, Superior National hosted the first George Nelson, Jr. – Challenge Cup. George enlisted and served in the 10th Mountain Division during the Second World War. Funds raised at this open-to-the-public event were split between the scholarship foundations of the 10th Mountain Division and Folds of Honor. Both organizations serve veterans and their families.
At the time, Heath said, “Thank you to everyone who participated in these two events – those who pledged and golfed and sponsors who donated gift items. In addition, we appreciate everyone who came forward in support of our veterans.”
Over the last 15 years, Folds of Honor has awarded more than 10,000 academic scholarships worth about $50 million.
Both Drew and Heath play fast, averaging about 45 minutes per nine holes of golf. This year the two will try to beat their 126-hole record. Family members will assist in the effort, providing food, encouragement, and helping to find wayward golf balls.
When asked who the best golfer is, Heath said the two are pretty even, but there will be plenty of sibling rivalry and fun during the long day of golf on Sunday. Still, the end result is to raise money for scholarships that can be distributed by Folds of Honor.
For more information about participating or supporting these fundraisers for veterans, contact 218- 663-7195, snlproshop@gmail.com or www.superiornational.com.
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