Sixty two degrees, 20-25 mph winds, and lots of sunshine were the conditions for this year's Winter Blast. There were many conversations about the high temperatures, but none of these were complaints that I heard. Thirty-four players in five divisions participated at Grubaugh Park in Ozark, Missouri to help raise money for the Christian County Family Crisis Center. The support by the players, sponsors, and the CCFCC was nothing short of awesome.

The most exciting part of the Winter Blast for me was to see how much we were able to help the CCFCC this year. Along with donations, a $5 or 5 can donation (as part of the entry), a $5 mulligan option, and a Drawing (new this year) this year's Winter Blast raised $604 more than doubling last year's total. There was also, food and some clothing given as well. Jessica Guccione, Director of the CCFCC was very excited and seemed surprised as she was told what all had been raised. Jessica showed up in time for the fun Turkey Trot game. The Turkey Trot is a game where players trade their tickets (earned or purchased) for closest to the pin throws. The players who through the closest were given the turkeys that were donated. Jessica also helped with the fun drawing and awards. In all I think she was amazed by everyone's giving and also noticed the fun spirit that was all around.

Despite the wind, there was some very good golf played. Jeff Beth and Tyler Foreman took the time to add a 19th swinging hole to the course making par 57. This was a lot of fun and much appreciated (Thanks Fellas for the extra work). Winners included: Brandy Monnahan (Wn), Brad Hilton (Int), Brandon Donnelly (Rec), Lee Griffitts (Masters), and Russ Burns (Open). The closest battle was definitely in the Masters division where Lee was able to pull off a sudden death victory over Jeff. I want to point out that Mike Porter not only cashed at a “Monkey” event, he shot the best 1st round of all the players. Also, a big shout out to Chad Fisk for bringing his mom to play and for moving up and making an incredible 2nd place showing in the Open division! One last note...Brad move up!! In all seriousness the fun factor scale was off the charts. For a full results list visit http://www.discgolfmonkey.com From there click on tournaments and click results for the Winter Blast.

As many of you noticed there was a shortage of Team Monkey Players. Obligations at this time of year mixed with the passing of Jake Whitehead's Father were the reasons they were not able to attend. Players were informed of Jake's loss and many thoughts and prayers went up! Thank you all for this. I still thank all of them for all they do and have done to help make the Monkey Events what they are. I'd also like to thank Josh Hurt, Zack Jones, and George Eudy for going way above and beyond the call of duty to fill the big shoes of my team. This event went very smooth because of your efforts and I thank you all! I'd also like to thank this year's sponsors: Q102, HyVee, Murfin's, Wal Mart, Price Cutter, the City of Lebanon, Journey Post, Hooters, Solar Bat, Keen, Vibram, Innova, and McAlister's. Last but not least the food providers: Jeff Beth and my mom Belma Burns for making the awesome chile and Brandy and Janey for the awesome cookies...and yes Brandy, the one's you sent home with me did make it home...well some of them at least!

Be looking for the 2013 schedule...It's coming soon. Until then Aces to you and Merry Christmas!!!