BOISE — The 2018 Albertsons Boise Open will tee off in six weeks at Hillcrest Country Club, benefiting not only avid golf fans, but local charities as well.
Since its debut in 1990, the tournament has raised over $20 million for local charities, making it one of the biggest single fundraising events in the state of Idaho.
The Blue Cross of Idaho on Monday kicked off its new Birdies Fore the Boise Brave campaign by donating $60,000 to get the fundraising started. The mission is to help local wounded veterans, first responders and their families along with the Boise Rescue Mission.
They are asking for pledges from businesses and fans to donate money for birdies made during this year's tournament. Blue Cross of Idaho will chip in $40 for every birdie made.
Last year there were nearly 1,700 birdies.
Albertsons, the tournament's host, is planning to match the next $60,000 raised which, in addition to pledges and the initial donation from Blue Cross of Idaho, would bring the grand total to $180,000 for five local organizations.
Local Iraq wounded war hero and pro golfer, Chad Phiefer, who nearly took his life from the effects of war, knows all about what these organizations do to support men and women in times of turmoil.
“I've been through lows and hit those lows and been through bad times after getting injured and its so important to have a strong community around you helping you fight those demons and helping you get back on your feet" Phiefer said. "It’s Just a great way for the community to help those vets and first responders in their recovery."
The tournament will be held September 13-16 at Hillcrest Country Club.
For more information on this year's Boise Open and the Birdies Fore the Boise Brave campaign, click here.