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Both St. Agatha Academy on Main Street and the Winchester Country Club on Boone Avenue have long been associated with Winchester, and collectively, they have long been associated with each other for a particular purpose.

Recently, despite occasional rainfall on the day of, the annual Golf Scramble Fundraiser brought out various community members to help raise money for the school.

“Everything’s for the children. I’ve been here since I’ve been active in the community,” said Winchester resident Gardner Wagers. “The staff and the people at St. Agatha, they’re just fantastic.”

Sponsored by various individuals and businesses, from Jimmy John’s to Summit Community Bank and more, this year’s fundraiser will benefit the school’s playground and installation of a new security system.

Not only is it expected that the golf scramble can bring in about $20-$25,000, but other events, such as the GoodGiving Challenge and Spaghetti Supper later this year, will provide support too.

The school, founded in 1919, offers an education based on Christian principles, academic excellence and community awareness.

Food and drink were provided beforehand for those participating.

The golf scramble also featured numerous prizes for both individual and team accomplishments.

Attending the event with his friend, Carl Jennings, Wagers opined that participation was more based on serving the community than winning the competition.

“We usually play in two tournaments a year”,” he said. “We’re not very good golfers but it’s fun to come out here and be with the people.”

Dudley Taylor, a long-time Winchester resident who associated with the Winchester Country Club going back to the 1950s, was present to play with his son Stuart and friend Blanton Coates.

“I think this is the best scramble put on anywhere”, said Taylor.

Several gifts including a set of cups featuring the St. Agatha Academy logo were present, with gift and supply donations provided by Creative Coffees, Longhorn Steakhouse, Planet Fitness, and more.

However, the event is notable not just for sporting enthusiasts and community members but also those who have walked the halls of St. Agatha.

“The neat thing about the scramble is that so many people always come back,” said Coates, a St. Agatha alum whose two children have also attended. “It’s somewhat near and dear to my heart, so it’s a great experience.”