Ben Perrone

In late May, I will be participating in the "100 Hole Hike" Golf Marathon to raise money and awareness for First Tee of Greater Charleston. The mission of First Tee is to positively impact the lives of our local youth by providing structured educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

To support my campaign, you can pledge any amount for each hole of golf I play during our golf marathon. For example, if you pledge $1 per hole and I complete 100 holes, that’s $100 towards the mission. You can also make one-time flat donations. I will be playing from sun-up to sun-down, walking, running & riding 20+ miles, and taking hundreds of swings. It will be a fun, but challenging day and your support will help keep me going!

On a personal note, this is a big undertaking for me. In March 2019 I was involved in a serious car accident resulting in significant chronic pain, nerve pain, and long-term treatments. My daily life was impacted significantly, and I couldn't swing a club for at least 6 months because of the shooting pain it triggered the moment I tried to make a turn. I had hoped to take part in this event last year, but it simply wasn't feasible. 100 holes in one day is going to be more golf than I've played in 2021 by a lot, but I set it as a stretch goal to prove that I have worked my way back physically.

The reason this event is so important to me is because the game of golf has been such a big part of me entire life. I've played my entire life, began caddying when I was 12, and played competitively through high school. When I decided to move to Charleston, caddying was my first job in my new town. Professional networking connections made there helped me land my first career-based opportunity. Years later I decided to pursue graduate school, and being able to caddie again helped make that possible. I still spend some time looping at The Ocean Course at Kiawah and I love the connection to the game that caddying helps me maintain. Even when I don't have time to play I can help people enjoy their best possible day on our awesome course.

The First Tee is the single most effective organization I know of for bringing this game and these opportunities to children who may not have the exposure or means to get involved otherwise. The game will benefit from not only a greater pool of players, but a more diverse one. Please help support our efforts as you are able.