With golf clubs at the ready and a cause close to home, Stride Credit Union is once again rallying the community for its annual STARS golf tournament, set for July 10 in Portage la Prairie.
Now in its third year, the fundraiser brings together golfers, local businesses, and community members to support STARS air ambulance, a service that plays a critical role in rural and remote areas across Manitoba.
"This year the tournament is at the Portage Golf Club," says Nancy Funk, manager of marketing and communications for Stride Credit Union. "We'll tee off at 11 a.m., and after a full day on the course, participants can enjoy supper together."
Room on the greens
There's still room for more golfers to join this year’s tournament. Registration is open at $150 per golfer or $600 for a foursome, which includes golf, a cart, and a meal. To sign up, participants can email golftournament@stridecu.ca. Full event details are also available on Stride's website, Facebook, and Instagram.
Generous community support
The event is made possible with support from a strong network of sponsors. Platinum sponsors include Keystone Sports Excellence, alongside Peter Bracken and Hartley Vanstone with RE/MAX Valleyview, with New Ground stepping up as the cart sponsor. Golden West is this year’s media partner, helping spread the word across the region.
"This is year three, and our first two years had great support from our members and the community," says Funk. "We're looking forward to another great day on the greens, all for a great cause."
Funk adds that they are also thankful for Gold sponsors: Solutions IT, MNP, Red River Appraisal Group, Blue Moon Portage, DC Security, Pro Image, Christianson TDS, Cobbe’s Plumbing and Heating, Ellwood McRorie, and Panko’s Food Centre.
A lifesaving experience
For some families, STARS is more than just a good cause – it's a lifeline. Dawne Dobbin, a VIP (Very Important Patient) with STARS, recalls how the service made all the difference during a terrifying ordeal while vacationing in Alberta.
"Near the end of our hike at Johnston Canyon, a tree fell from the mountain, striking our son Kolt," Dobbin shares. "He was only eight years old, and in critical condition. After being airlifted to Banff, STARS flew him to Alberta Children's Hospital in Calgary."
Dobbin describes the moment STARS took over Kolt's care. "They were kind and reassuring, and I remember feeling a little relief knowing he was in good hands and that he would get to the larger hospital faster."
Kolt eventually recovered from his numerous internal injuries, returning home to Manitoba for continued care. "Almost two years later, we visited the STARS base in Calgary. We met the flight crew again – some for the second time – and were able to say thank you, although it feels like 'thank you' isn’t enough."
Why STARS matters
Funk emphasizes that STARS isn’t just a service, it’s a vital part of life in rural Manitoba. "Living in rural Manitoba, it's very important to have quick access to medical services. STARS makes that possible."
Dobbin agrees. "STARS in rural and remote areas is life-saving. The resources, support, and critical time saved, at no cost to the patient, are invaluable. No one ever expects to need them, but we're so grateful when we do." For more information or to register for the tournament, visit stridecu.ca.