UNC Finley Golf Course Chief Professional Frank Maynard completed 126 holes in a 2 hour golf marathon on June 18 in support of the Folds of Honor initiative, raising over $ 15,000 for the cause .

The funds will support three scholarships valued at $ 5,000 for children of wounded or fallen veterans in K-12 grades or higher education and is a continuation of the UNC Finley partnership. with Folds of Honor.

Launched by veteran and PGA pro Dan Rooney in 2007, Folds of Honor gives millions of dollars in financial aid to military families across the country each year. Golf Marathons raise funds through pledges based on the number of holes the player completes and are an important part of Folds of Honor’s fundraising mission.

“I think one of the most interesting things about a Folds of Honor golf marathon is that it allows community members to thank the military for the marathoner’s efforts,” said Sara Bush, Southeast Regional Director of Folds of Honor.

The original goal for the marathon was $ 10,000, but Bush and Maynard agreed to increase it to $ 15,000 after overwhelming support.

“We are over fifteen and we will continue,” he said. “It’s mind-boggling to think that we have so much support.”

Last year, North Carolina students received 456 scholarships through Folds of Honor – the second largest in the country – for a total of $ 2.2 million. However, many candidates could not be supported, and efforts like Maynard’s are helping to bridge the gap.

“We are raising these funds for these scholarships for these young people and I think it’s just wonderful,” Maynard said. “In my 21 years with Finley we have continued to do things right and do more with youth golf and this scholarship is another example.”

For veteran Wesley Bauguess, the college golf coach of North Raleigh Christian Academy, Folds of Honor has been a huge support to his family. After Bauguess’ husband died in Pakistan, his two daughters could pay for their secondary and university education through scholarships.

“Folds of Honor has been more than just a scholarship organization for us,” said Bauguess. “They really care about families and develop a relationship with the fellows.”

“It can make the difference between whether a student goes to a community college or a public school, or a public school or a private university, or it can help close the gap between tuition fees in the state and in out of state, ”Bauguess said. “It’s important and it helps a lot.

Bauguess now travels across the country to tell his family stories and promote the goals and services of Folds of Honor.

“It’s more like a family than a scholarship organization,” she says.

Maynard completed 126 holes despite an initial goal of 99 and was supported throughout the round by friends and other players. With the first tee at 5:30 am, Maynard had completed seven 18-hole rounds in 2 hours, shooting fifteen under par.

“It was fun to be there with the people playing and they let us play,” he said. “We’ve had a lot of support which is great. “

While Folds of Honor has even more fundraising to do to support the families of deceased and disabled veterans, efforts like Maynard’s help continue their mission.

“It’s a great achievement to play over 100 holes on any given day, but it’s a pittance compared to what the service members do on a daily basis,” said Bush. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see this happen and I think it’s just as gratifying for Frank to see the power of his voice and the impact it can have on military families.”

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