A Swing into Paradise: MCCS Lejeune-New River Commander’s Cup, Presented by American Clipper
Camp Lejeune's Paradise Point hosted the annual MCCS Lejeune-New River Commander's Cup on Friday, May 17th. Forty-four golfers competed in the 18-hole scramble under clear skies with a cool breeze.
Before teeing off, players were treated to a warm welcome from Brigadier General Adolfo Garcia Jr., Commanding General, MCIEAST-MCB Camp Lejeune. The opening remarks, filled with gratitude to sponsors and city officials, set a tone of appreciation and community spirit. Mayor Phillips further honored the occasion by presenting BGen Garcia with a plaque from the City of Jacksonville, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between the military base and the local community.
Each player was greeted with an array of tee gifts, including a 30oz tumbler, tees, Titleist golf balls, and cap, courtesy of our sponsors. American Clipper provided bottle openers, while Raising Cane, a hole sponsor, added their own touch with a towel and a gift card, ensuring that every player was recognized.
Duffers Retreat kept the field of players hydrated with the beverage cart patrolling the Gold golf course. The staff also served a delicious buffet during the awards ceremony.
The course condition was excellent, exceeding expectations with well-maintained fairways and smooth greens thanks to course superintendent Gary Appleton and his crew.
In a recent ICE comment LtCol Andrew Nicholson wrote, "Just had a wonderful experience with John and Kelly during the Commander's Cup tournament. They are both supremely professional, enthusiastic, and attentive and set the perfect employee example across base. I've lived on and off Lejeune for 15 years and I rank the base Golf Course the top venue on MCB Lejeune. Thank you MCCS for providing an exceptional experience to all Marines, Sailors and their families."
Daniel Hardesty won the Putting Contest, beating 39 competitors with his impressive greens skills. He received a custom Paradise Point putter as his prize.
A tense putt-off decided second place as the sun set. BGen Garcia and John Johnson announced the winners, capping off the tournament.
"We're thrilled to have hosted another successful tournament. Seeing so many skilled golfers come together in a spirit of friendly competition is what it's all about." – John Johnson, Club PGA Professional
We would like to thank our presenting sponsor, American Clipper, and our hospitality sponsor, Marine Federal Credit Union, for making this event possible. Additionally, we thank our hole sponsors who were Ashland University, GEICO Local Office, ECU, Raising Cane's, and Western Carolina University. (MCCS Sponsors. No Federal or DoD endorsement implied.)
Tournament Results:
- 1st Place – James Thompson, Paul Buchanan, Victor Mancini, Chris Raynor
- 2nd Place – Stephen Carson, David Smitherman, Donald Lockhart, Trevor Jennings
- Closest to Pin #2 – James Thompson
- Closest to the Pin #17 – Mayor Phillips
- Longest Drive #9 – Bailey Phillips
- Putting Contest – Daniel Hardesty
For a calendar of all our upcoming golf events, visit our web page at https://lejeunenewriver.usmc-mccs.org/recreation-fitness/recreation/golf-course