Rivier golf classic raises more than $130k

NASHUA – Rivier College’s 12th annual “Swing into Fitness” Golf Classic raised more than $130,000 to benefit health and fitness programs. The tournament was held Aug. 3 at Vesper Country Club in Tyngsboro, Mass.

“We are so proud to have had more than 60 corporate and individual sponsors this year, and are so grateful for their tremendous generosity,” says Karen Cooper, executive director of development and marketing.

Several sports celebrities attended the event, including former Boston Bruins Rick Middleton, Gord Kluzak, Don Marcotte, Gerry Cheevers, Bob Sweeney, John Carter, Barry Pederson, Bruce Shoebottom and Ken Hodge; former Olympic hockey player Dick Lamby; former Patriot Max Lane; and former Boston Red Sox Bill Monbouquette, Bob Montgomery, Bill Lee and Wilbur Wood.

“The tournament not only raises funds to support health and fitness programs for our students, it also raises awareness of the tremendous accomplishments of our athletes and our athletic staff,” Cooper said.

The Raiders’ Division III athletic program has become more visible in recent years after several GNAC Championships, including men’s volleyball titles in 2009 and 2008, women’s volleyball and women’s softball in 2008 and a men’s basketball title in 2007. Raider athletes and coaches have received numerous awards, including all-conference, player of the year, coach of the year and more. The college will launch men’s and women’s lacrosse teams and a women’s field hockey team in the coming academic year.

In addition to sponsorships, the tournament raised $26,000 in raffle ticket sales.

“We are eager to continue the momentum from this year’s event and to reach out to more corporate and individual sponsors in the coming year,” Cooper said.