Patriot Classic raises scholarship funds

At the hole-in-one competition hosted by the University and Sudden Link, Caleb Rutter of Lindale attempts to make the final cut to win the $1 million prize. Photo by Jessica Sibbing

No one walked away with $1 million after the University's Patriot Classic, but students will benefit from the scholarship money raised by the event.

The Patriot Classic started in 1776 as an annual scholarship fundraiser that consists of three events: UT Tyler Suddenlink Patriot Million Dollar Hole-in-One, Tee It Up sponsor party and Patriot Golf Classic.

Hopefuls paid $1 per shot to win $1 million or a 2010 F-250 truck from Tyler Ford, valued at more than $60,000.

Qualifying rounds for the Hole-in-One were held from May 8-15 at the University's practice soccer field with finals on May 16 at Cascades Golf Club.

Rob Trimble of Whitehouse beat out 36 other golfers to claim first place after his ball came closest to the hole. The ball within 4 ft, 2.5 inches from the hole.

A total of 20,284 balls were hit over the seven-day period. To date, the events have raised more than $1.6 million, according to the University.

Funding from the event is used to support scholarships for deserving students who attend classes at any of the University's Tyler, Longview or Palestine campuses.

The Patriot Golf Classic is built with the support of the UT Tyler Classic Society, an organization comprised of civic, business, professional and philanthropic leaders devoted to enhancing the Patriot Golf Classic and its traditions.