By Jan Makaryk, F335698
February 2016
Swinging Golfers International, an FMCA chapter, was formed in 1985 by members devoted to playing golf at outstanding courses, traveling the country in their motorhomes, and socializing with people who share similar interests.
The chapter’s 30th anniversary rally in September 2015 was held at the RV Resort at Carolina Crossroads in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. The resort is owned by chapter members Fred and Lynn Israel. Rally hosts Jim and Jana Davis and John and Linda Kilcullen were assisted by many committees. We were blessed with beautiful weather the entire week.
Owners of 33 coaches — more than half of the chapter membership — attended the rally. They came from Florida, Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Alabama, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Five new couples were added to our chapter family, and they now will be able to experience the fun and camaraderie at our rolling rallies, which are held approximately three times a year.
The Rally Room looked fabulous all week. Our talented members created the 10 beautiful centerpieces, with one chosen “best in show.” A streaming slideshow in the Rally Room offered a chance to relive many memories. Laughter rang out as we recognized old friends or ourselves on the screen.
This was a “no cooking” rally, so meals were catered by local establishments: barbecue on Sunday evening; pasta on Tuesday evening; turkey dinner with all the trimmings on Thursday evening. Also on Thursday, we were treated to a beautiful 30th anniversary cake and ice cream. Each morning, the Israels provided breakfast for us, too.
To commemorate the anniversary, everyone received golf towels, insulated cups featuring our chapter logo, and a framed group photo. The ladies also were treated to a goodie bag of fun items, jewelry, and assorted gifts.
Since golf is always the main theme at our rallies, three days of tournaments were planned, with 55 to 60 players competing each day. Monday’s scramble round ended with a four-way tie for first. On Tuesday, four teams placed in the “pink ball” tournament. And Thursday’s individual gross and net format resulted in 23 winners.
Those who do not play golf had a great time getting together to play cards or games, go out to lunch, shop, explore the area, or just relax. The fun included a cornhole competition, a hand and foot card game tournament, and miniature golf and Frisbee golf.
All in all, it was a wonderful celebration for our 30th anniversary. Many thanks to our hosts and to all those who attended.
To find out more about how to enjoy RV travel with this fun group, visit our website at www.swinginggolfers.com.