Special to the Eagle Island resident Gary Avery takes a few practice shots to warm up for this weekend’s One Hole Over the Pond Golf Outing at the Pine Island American Legion.

Step aside Palmer and Nicklaus, as Pine Island’s best duffers will tee off this weekend with a “green jacket” demonstration of local golf talent.

Hosted by the Pine Island American Legion, the third annual One Hole Over the Pond Golf Outing will attract golf enthusiasts from near and far on Saturday, March 6. This event is open to the public and foursomes will tee off beginning at 8 a.m. and continue to 6 p.m. The object of the outing is to put a golf ball closest to the hole, while avoiding a large water hazard. Pre-registration is required at a cost of one round of golf for $5 per person. The entry fee includes the use of clubs, balls, carts and a caddy. Golfers can opt to bring their own clubs as well.

During past events, the object of the game was to hit a golf ball across the pond located behind the Legion property to the green. The person accomplishing this feat, landing in or nearest to the hole, is declared the winner. This year however, a new twist has been added, which sparked some controversy.

“With the success of the event over the last two years, the Golf Committee sought to increase the challenge of the One Hole Over the Pond Golf Outing. Golf course architect, Ben Frederick and post surveyor, Mike Runas, devised a new T with a generous elevation and a new hole with the challenge of a couple of trees. Testing the new hole, our first champ, Tom Reed, called it a perfect wedge shot,” said event organizer, Sharon Hastings. “Change comes hard to Pine Island, so, of course, debate ensued. Telephones rang, reasons sited, both pro and con, meetings were arranged, many stuck their oar or club in so to speak and all counties were heard from and all data considered. However, change held its ground yet a compromise was attained.”

According to Hastings, this year, there will be two holes to shoot for during One Hole Over the Pone Golf Outing. The original hole will be used for novice golfers while the new second hole will present more of a challenge for more seasoned golfers.

“The original hole is at a lower elevation and is a nine iron shot and also is clear of any trees,” Hastings said. “The new hole however, may very well give us our first hole-in-one. This hole is a difficult one with trees in the way, but is perfectly suited for a wedge. I think participants will find it to be a real nice challenge.”

The prizes this year also promise to be better than in the prior years of the event.

“Thanks to the efforts of Post Pro, John Heist, Doc Watson’s has sent a Mizuno Tour Wedge, compliments of Wild Turkey to be awarded as one of the prizes this year,” Hastings said. “Plus, we have dozens of complimentary delights at the island’s finest epicurean establishments. We expect to see a few new duffers as the challenge of our water hazard and no limit Mulligan’s make this a sweet spot to stop.”

According to Hastings, the side parking lot of the American Legion will be used on the day of the event for those needing to tale a few practic putts or take advantage of a brief lesson from the staff of pros who will be on hand. Hastings also cautions that parking on March 6, may also pose a problem to those attending the Legion event.

“On March 6, we are sharing the day with the Duck Race in St. James City and everybody always like to be everywhere, so golf carts are encouraged,” she said. “We suggest attendees share a ride, bike, skate, walk or drive a golf cart to the Legion. There also will be prizes for the best dressed cart, caddy and duffer.”

The officials of the One Hole Over the Pond Golf Outing will enforce the strict rules of golf and golfers must replace their divots.

Starting times can be reserved at the Pine Island American Legion Lounge from Head Caddy, Doug Manson; Pro, Ben Frederick or event organizer, Sharon Hastings.

All proceeds from this event will benefit veterans charities.