D.C. Area Golfers Swing So Others Can See

WASHINGTON -- For more than a decade now, golfers from across Washington metro area have been swinging for a whole lot more than a better course score or the best putting tally on a particular hole.

With every swing, they have been helping people retain their sight.  With each putt, they have been sponsoring eye care research.  With each chip, they have been training ophthalmologists who will go out and help people in underserved communities receive the best of eye care.

They have been participating in the Howard University Hospital Department of Ophthalmology’s annual Eyeball Tournament.

The 14th annual tournament will be held this year Thursday, May 31, at Lake Presidential Golf Club, 3151 Presidential Golf Drive, in Upper Marlboro, Md.  Lake Presidential is one of Prince George’s County’s newest and most opulent golf courses.

Dr. Robert A. Copeland Jr., chair of the Department of Ophthalmology at Howard University Hospital and Howard University College of Medicine, invites area golfers to support the event.

“It doesn’t matter if you are a scratch player or a duffer like most of us, please join us,” Copeland said.  “We have tons of fun, so it’s a win-win.  We raise money to help people retain their eyesight and have a good time playing golf.”

There are lots of contests in which golfers can win prizes and money, Copeland said.  A luncheon and awards presentation follows the day of golf.

“And whether you play golf or not, come on out,” he said.  “We need volunteers to help out, and it’s just lots of fun.”

Registration starts at 7 a.m. and the shotgun starts at 8 a.m.  The fee is $185 a person and $725 for foursomes

For additional information, contact JoAnn Brandon 202.865.3302, jbrandon@huhosp.org; or Terri Coleman 202.865.3311, tcoleman@huhosp.org.