First Gentleman to host Disc Golf Open at CSUSM

First Gentleman to Host Disc Golf OpenOn Friday, October 29, and Saturday, October 30, California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) will hold its first disc golf tournament, the First Gentleman's Disc Golf Open, in celebration of the University's 20th anniversary. Hosted by First Gentleman Jim Mickelson, spouse of CSUSM President Karen Haynes, the inaugural tournament and fundraising event will benefit ACE Scholars Services, which supports former foster youth on campus."The First Gentleman's Disc Golf Open is a fun and rewarding tournament that anyone can play," Mickelson said. "It is great exercise on a great campus for a great cause."The Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) sanctioned tournament will feature two entry options inviting both professional and recreational players to support ACE Scholars Services while enjoying the game of disc golf on the University's new course. The two-day, two-round Championship Flight for experienced players will kick off the tournament on Friday afternoon, followed by a one-day, one-round Philanthropic Flight on Saturday morning for recreational disc golfers, alumni, and community members.The CSUSM disc golf course, which opened in April of 2010, features a par value of 55 and winds 4,410 feet throughout the campus. The course is only among seven in San Diego County that are certified by the PDGA and is the only 18-hole disc golf course on a college or university in southern California.Registration entry fees are $100 per Championship Flight golfer and $85 per Philanthropist Flight player or $325 for a foursome. All players will receive a complimentary tournament shirt, premium golf disc, microfiber Tukwut towel, commemorative mini marker disc, and a catered lunch on Saturday at The McMahan House, hosted by First Gentleman Jim Mickelson and President Haynes. The tournament will also feature contests, prizes, and a silent auction benefiting ACE Scholars Services."ACE assists emancipated foster youth who have been victims of family difficulties," Mickelson explained. "This CSUSM program is trying to ensure that former foster youth have access to higher education and the support they need to be successful."ACE Scholars Services was established at CSUSM in the fall of 2007 to address the specialized needs of former foster youth. The program focuses on providing academic and supportive services to help foster youth obtain a college education and successfully transition to independence.For more information about the First Gentleman's Disc Golf Open, available sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, visit www.csusm.edu/ace/discgolfopen/index.html or contact Monica Watkins at (760) 310-9468.