The Lanto Charity Classic Supports Youth in Sports and Families Battling Illness
Ballyhack was honored to host the inaugural Lanto Charity Classic, presented by Delta Dental, which raised more than $150,000 to benefit The Lanto Charity Trust, a 501(c)(3) organization.
Lanto Griffin, PGA Tour player and Dormie Network Ambassador, established this planned-giving endowment with two primary goals: to provide support for families battling devastating or terminal illnesses and to provide support for disadvantaged youth in sports.
The Blue Ridge Mountains of Roanoke, Virginia provided a moody backdrop for the event, held September 20 – 21 just an hour’s drive from Lanto’s hometown of Blacksburg.
The player’s party Monday evening was one for the books: attendees enjoyed a seafood tower, Piedmontese prime rib, Yakitori chicken, housemade charcuterie, wine poured by Arlyn Vineyard, bourbon tasting provided by Garrison Brothers, putting contest presented by SIK Golf, and a performance from award-winning country music artist Brantley Gilbert.
Silent and live auction items included a TPC Sawgrass experience with Lanto and Vijay Singh, caddying for Lanto at a ProAm with four tickets and dinner, golf lessons, Brantley Gilbert concert tickets, Macklemore concert tickets, and a Masters putter.
Following a clinic with Lanto Tuesday morning, 20 teams of four played in a (rain-shortened) 9-hole tournament surrounded by dramatic mountain views and Ballyhack’s demanding 50 – 70 foot elevation changes.
The weather offered its own challenges, though choice prizes rewarded those who persevered: a SIK Golf putter and framed photo of Ballyhack #18, Titleist bag, Titleist head covers, and Ballyhack golf shop credit.
We commend Lanto’s dedication to giving back to his home community, helping grow the game, and offering opportunities for youth across all sports. Beneficiaries of the event include:
- The Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Virginia
- The First Tee of Roanoke Valley
- The Carilion Clinic Lanto Griffin Fund to support families facing financial hardship due to terminal illness
- The Roanoke Valley Hall of Fame Lanto Griffin Scholarship, which supports a local student based on financial need, golf, and academic achievements
- Other charitable organizations representing Lanto’s mission
Special thanks to Fairwhay Management, Ballyhack leadership, and the Dormie Network Foundation for coordinating the event. Lanto’s staff at Fairwhay is looking forward to an even bigger event next year, slated for July 31 – August 1, 2022.
