Golfing, fishing a hot ticket

Published 6:00 am Saturday, June 11, 2005

Fly-fishing and golf. Now that’s a pairing not often seen.

But that was the scene last Saturday, as the Charles Moriarty Foundation hosted its annual Surf and Turf Classic at scenic Restoration Point.

The chance to get in a rare round at the private south-end country club, the only waterfront golf course in the region, attracted 50 players.

The weather complied and expert intervention was provideded, as Wing Point golf pro David Tunkkari stood at the seventh hole, teeing off for participants for a small donation.

Chris Andersen of Sage Fly Rods and Troy Dettman of Northwest Angler were on hand to coach individuals on fly-rod casting techniques.

Given the response to this event, another Golf and Fly-fishing Classic will be held Sept. 16. That event will be for women only and will include a guest speaker and luncheon.

The June 4 classic raised several thousand dollars for the foundation, a nonprofit organization that for six years has been providing one-on-one individual advocacy services at no cost to people living with cancer.

The program serves residents in the greater Seattle area, including Bainbridge Island and Kitsap County. Staff membes help individuals recently diagnosed with cancer address a number of non-medical concerns, such as transportation.

The foundation also provides individualized treatment research and emotional support to clients and their families.

Services are provided at no cost to the individual, regardless of income.

“We are thrilled by the enthusiastic and genuine response we have had to this event,” said Marion Moriarty, foundation president and chair. “So many individuals have been touched by cancer, either as a survivor or by knowing someone who has been diagnosed.

“This event is about more than just raising money for our organization. It is a time to gather together and share stories of battles fought and won or of memories.”