Capacity crowds witnessed the stunning success of our recent Golf & Tennis Celebrity Classic, which raised more money than ever: $360,000, up 40 percent from 2005.

Why does this event, which just completed its 15th year, continue to be so popular? “It’s for a great cause and is a marvelous combination of outstanding athleticism, showmanship, and entertainment,” says Kay Lyman, Celebrity Classic Chair.

At this year’s September 30 tennis tourney at the Claremont Resort & Spa, the crowd of more than 1,000 people gave a standing ovation to the doubles match featuring Mats Wilander, an eight-time Grand Slam titlist and “Duel Hand Luke” Jensen, who lived up to his nickname and hit blazing shots with his right hand and left. And as usual, the golf tourney, held this year on September 11, was a sellout.

For the past three years, the Celebrity Classic has benefited Thunder Road, the Medical Center’s substance abuse recovery program for teens. Over the event’s 15-year history, total fundraising is now “closing in on the $3 million mark,” Lyman points out. “The event is stronger than ever, as evidenced by this year’s record proceeds. This success spurs us on to an even bigger and better 16th Annual Celebrity Classic. Mark your calendar and plan to attend September 10, 2007 (golf) and September 15, 2007 (tennis).”