Proceeds from successful golf tournament fundraiser
by Alexandra Wilson-Zegil
MANITOULIN—As many know, Manitoulin Island is a tight-knit community filled to the brim with passionate, supportive people. The Providence Bay/Spring Bay Lions Club is a prime example of these Manitoulin values.
On Saturday, September 16, the Providence Bay/Spring Bay Lions Club organized and hosted a golf tournament fundraiser to support the Manitoulin Metal Robotics team, also known as Manitoulin Metal. Manitoulin Metal is composed of enthusiastic students from across the Island. The team has been steadily gaining recognition in both national and international robotics circles after winning a prestigious award at the FIRST World Championships. However, pursuing their passion and dreams in the field of robotics is no small feat and it often requires financial support beyond what the students and their families can provide.
The fundraiser golf tournament was held at Brookwood Brae golf course in Mindemoya and was subject to a terrific turnout. Golfers from Manitoulin to Sudbury showed their support for both the Lions and the robotics team. An attendee commented on how the young people seemed so caring and on how well they worked together.
Fast forward to Wednesday, October 4 when Lions Brian Mitchell, Christopher Bryan and Chris Walker met with Manitoulin Metal to present them with a large cheque. Thanks to the proceeds from the golf tournament and a generous top-up from the Lions, Manitoulin Metal was presented with a $9,000 cheque. It was an emotional moment for the team to see such a tremendous amount of community support. The money will be going towards travel costs and purchasing components for this season’s robot.
Manitoulin Metal hopes to make community sponsors and supporters proud at their upcoming competitions—including the World Championship—in March and April. In the less distant future, the robotics team is looking forward to meeting the Lions District Governor next week and sharing a presentation with the organization. Manitoulin Metal is extremely grateful for the continued support of the Providence Bay/Spring Bay Lions Club.
