Article from the Smiths Falls paper written by James Careless, TJT Design.

Despite torrential rain that inundated Smith Falls on August 29, 2009, the 1st Annual Kilimanjaro Golf Fore Kids Tournament was a resounding success. Organized by Debbie Harbridge, owner of Real Deal housecleaning services, the tournament at the Lombard Glen Golf & Country Club raised $4,200 to build classrooms for children in Tanzania. It was in support of efforts by Plan Canada, the international children’s aid agency.

45 local golfers teed off at 11 am in the 1st Annual Kilimanjaro Golf Fore Kids Tournament. After enduring an ever-strengthening downpour for over an hour, the soaked competitors retreated to the clubhouse. As they dried up before the fire, they passed the time in a vigourously-contested indoor putting contest. Afterwards, the main program was launched featuring a silent auction with items donated by HP Canada, Pinnacle, Verbatim, Rinaldo’s of Manotick and TaggerWear Custom Swimsuits.

Local writer/broadcaster James Careless MC’d the event. He introduced speakers such as Plan Canada President and CEO Rosemary McCarney; Ottawa mountain climber Barry Finlay whose trek up Mount Kilimanjaro with son Chris inspired the classrooms for Tanzania project, and acting Smith Falls mayor Robin Hawe. Entertainment was provided by surprise guest and singer/songwriter Trevor Finlay (also Barry Finlay’s son) who came in from Nashville to support the event. Working behind the scenes providing energetic support were TaggerWear owner Susan Trott, Leah Careless, Jennifer Kempster and Evelyn Finlay.

“I am really grateful to the community, my friends and the fine staff at the Lombard Glen Golf & Country Club for making our first tournament a success despite the rain,” said Harbridge. “The money raised here will make a real difference in improving not just the education, but opportunities and lives of children in Tanzania.”