A stormy forecast for Monday, March 31, did not dampen turnout or spirits for the revival of the St. Mary’s Foundation Golf Invitational after a six-year hiatus triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The storms held off long enough for most of the 30 teams to finish 16 of 18 holes at The Georgia Club near Statham. A couple of light showers passed through while golfers were on the course, but players continued to enjoy the day and the course before a thunderstorm approached and play was halted to ensure golfers’ safety.

“We were delighted by the turnout and the enthusiasm,” said Foundation Board Member and Golf Invitational Co-Chair Lenn Chandler. “It’s always heartening to see our community’s support of St. Mary’s and the work of St. Mary’s Foundation to support the system’s healing ministry.”

The tournament raised nearly $77,500 from sponsorships, mulligan sales, and on-site fundraisers. After coming off the course, golfers enjoyed a delicious barbecue lunch prepared by Georgia Club staff, as well as prizes for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and last-place teams.

“Monday’s tournament was a great new beginning,” said Anneliese Woodall, manager of donor relations for St. Mary’s Health Care System. “We are excited to bring this much-loved event back to our community and look forward to its continued growth and success for years to come.”

Funds raised by St. Mary’s Foundation support St. Mary’s mission to be a compassionate and transforming healing presence within the community. In addition to being a full-service hospital with 24-hour emergency care, intensive care, robotic surgical capabilities, and advanced imaging, St. Mary’s offers inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, cardiac services, stroke care, a region-wide medical group, and more.

Woodall expressed thanks to all of the event’s sponsors, especially platinum sponsors Cable East, Inc., Brasfield & Gorrie, LAD Records Management, and Johnson & Johnson. Planning will begin soon on the 2026 St. Mary’s Golf Invitational.