The Golf Greats: The 2019 National Marine Yachty Nationals Invitational

Captains, crewmembers, and industry professionals were treated to a gorgeous day of golf at the 2019 National Marine Yachty Nationals Invitational on April 7. The weather was perfect for a great round of 18 holes — or maybe not so great depending on which team you ask — at the Orangebrook Golf and Country Club. All proceeds from the golf tournament support next year’s Broward County Waterway Cleanup, organized by the Marine Industries Association of South Florida. The Waterway Cleanup was responsible for collecting approximately 35 tons of trash this year, and the goal is to increase exposure and funding for next year’s event.

Every team brought their A-game, and some teams were decked out in themed garb from Caribbean shirts to a taco costume. However, the clear winner for the Best Dressed award went to Team Killer Queen — Chief Stewardess Belinda, First Officer Simon, Purser Valentina, and Third Stewardess Lara of M/Y Fortunate Sun — with their clever ensemble with Freddie Mercury and queens with knife holsters.

The third and second place teams scored 58 and placements were determined by a tie-breaker. Third place went to Engineer Jonathan, Capt. Hendrik, Second Officer Garreck, and Bosun Remmert of M/Y Rock It, and second place went to Mike, Tom, and John of Southern Yacht Industries, and Gibby. The winning team with a score of 55 was Deckhand Greg of M/Y Vixit, Andy of Datum, Chief Engineer Scott, and Capt. Brook of M/Y Avalon.

This tournament’s greatest prize, perhaps, was a brand-new Chevy donated by Southern Yacht Industries and Virgin Yachts. The challenge was to get as close to the pin as possible with the closest golfer claiming the car. Only three golfers of all 144 participants made it within 25 feet of the hole and it was Lead Deckhand Lorenzo of M/Y Elysian who won the contest with a distance of 3 feet and 3 inches from the pin.

More than $20,000 worth of prizes was donated for the raffle that wrapped up the day. All in support of a great cause, this year’s invitational may have been the best one yet.

If you missed out on the fun, make sure to check out our photos from the day.