OBSERVER File Photo Pictured at the 1957 George Bataitis Open, from left, are: George Bataitis, Roger Loop and Dick Kimball.

The 37th annual George Bataitis Open will be hosted by the Jamestown Community College Athletics Department on Saturday, May 9, at Chautauqua Golf Club. Registration for the tournament begins at 7:30 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.

“This event is the premiere fundraiser for JCC athletics,” said athletic director George Sisson. “It is the greatest opportunity for the community at large to get involved and help our athletic scholarship program all while having a good time on the course.”

The entry fee for each golfer is $110, or $90 for Chautauqua Golf Club members. Included in the entry fee are golf, a cart, a tee gift, refreshments on the course, a grab-and-go lunch and a dinner following the event.

“We are really excited to host the 37th annual GBO this year and all the other activities that go along with it that our golfers have come to know and love,” added Sisson. “I want to thank the Chautauqua Golf Club and Troy Moss for his efforts, as well as the GBO committee working tirelessly to make this a wonderful event for all participants.”

There will also be a putting contest, 50/50, raffles, closest-to-the-pin and long-drive challenges, and other special activities along the 18 holes.

Awards will be determined by flights. First-place finishers of each flight will receive a prize. The number of flights will be determined by the number of foursomes competing.

JCC athletic staff will host an awards ceremony during the dinner hour following the tournament, adjacent to the 18th green.

“We look forward to seeing all of our supporters of Jayhawk athletics again on the course,” said Sisson. “This event plays a large role in helping young people achieve their college education. It is a very worthy event and much appreciated by our athletes.”

The George Bataitis Open Golf Tournament started as an afternoon of golf among friends. When George Bataitis retired after more than 35 years of distinguished service to JCC, a scholarship fund was initiated in his name, with the GBO providing the funds.

Since that time, more than $300,000 has been raised for scholarships for athletes attending Jamestown CC. Bataitas passed away Oct. 11, 2014, at the age of 87. The college honors his memory by continuing the tournament.

“We look forward to seeing everyone at the tournament,” added Sisson. “We’d also like to extend a huge ‘thank you’ to our premier sponsors, Jamestown Macadam Inc. and Tasta Pizza, as well as all the other supporters that make the event so special.”

Entry forms are due no later than Wednesday, April 26. Visit jccjayhawks.com/event/gbo for more information.