Neither the threat of heavy rain or the actual sporadic light sprinkles could dampen the mood of the 120+ golfers enjoying the Suffield Rotary’s Glenn T. Packard Golf Tournament, now in its 33rd year. For those unaware, at the age of 31 local resident Glenn Packard was tragically killed in an accident on Route 91. Some of his friends created a foundation in his name and funded it by starting an annual memorial golf tournament in his honor, a tournament later taken over by the Suffield Rotary. The objective of the foundation was to enhance the quality of educational and recreational sports in Suffield, activities that Glenn had been very active in supporting. The fact that 33 years later people who knew him return from locations near and far to honor him demonstrates the kind of person he was.
Long time supporters Team Beneski: (l-r) David, Ted and Frank Beneski, Doug Packard (Glenn’s brother) and George Drakely.
While all participants had a good time, particular smiles were noticed on the faces of the first-place overall team, consisting of Dave Camera, Tyler Griffith, Jeff Guerrette, Mike Sulzinski and Rick Gemme. Also showing a bit of an extra smile were the first place “mixed” team: Paul Muska, Amy Muska, Jim Muska, Jay Barbarotta and Will Lord as well as the dozens of participants enjoying a refreshment on the 19th hole while winning one of the many raffle prizes donated by supporters of the tournament.
A particular thanks goes out to our major sponsors, Windsor Federal Bank, PeoplesBank, The Muska Family, Dowd Realty Group, Heritage Funeral Home, Connecticut Mulch and others, including the many tee sign supporters. The tournament simply would not have been possible without their financial help and the hard work of our Suffield Rotary volunteers. Plans are already underway for the 34th annual tournament, so be on the lookout for information in the late spring.