The Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF) announced it will hold its 2020 Fall Classic & Networking Event in-person on September 30 – October 1 at the Pinehurst Resort in Pinehurst, NC. The event, one of the few in-person industry events this year, brings the industry back together with the support of GFL Environmental, the event’s overall sponsor, as well as over 20 additional sponsors thus far. The goal of the Fall Classic is to support EREF’s charitable mission while offering an opportunity for participants to connect with friends and colleagues. All proceeds from the tournament will support EREF’s mission to fund and direct scientific research and educational initiatives to establish sustainable waste management practices.
The EREF Fall Classic is attended by industry leaders who value the solid waste science that EREF contributes to the field. In 2016, EREF began playing 2 courses in order to accommodate more players and the typical attendance has since been around 170. However, due to COVID-19 safety measures and restrictions placed by the Governor, this year EREF is limiting attendance to 130 while still playing on 2 courses. “We are excited to hold our Fall Classic & Networking Event in-person. However, safety is a key focus during this event, and EREF has implemented a number of measures on top of those that Pinehurst has already implemented. We ask that attendees follow these safety practices so that everyone has a safe, fun time,” said Brian Staley, President and CEO of EREF.
While EREF is working closely with Pinehurst staff to ensure the safety of guests, attendees can still expect the fun and quality networking opportunities that the Fall Classic has become synonymous with.
On Wednesday, September 30, the event will begin with an outside (weather permitting) putting contest and networking reception featuring hors d’oeuvres stations and open bars. Following a boxed grab-n’-go- style breakfast, the golf tournament tees off at 8:30 am on Course No. 3 and No. 5 on Thursday, October 1. The tournament will conclude with a contactless Awards Luncheon at 2:00 pm.
The format for the tournament will be four-person scramble with a shotgun start. Players on the first and second place teams will receive trophies and a framed team photo. Hole-in-one prizes will be given at all par threes, including the chance to win $50,000 cash. There will also be other prize-winning opportunities, including the chance to win a $10,000 putting contest.
Staley said, “This year has been filled with new challenges for all, yet the industry has come together in support of EREF and its mission – we’re incredibly grateful. EREF is holding its Fall Classic & Networking Event in-person at Pinehurst Resort and EREF and Pinehurst are working together to ensure the safety of attendees and staff during this time to reconnect.”
Get the Most Out of Your Time at Pinehurst!
Don’t miss playing the short, 9-hole course that the Golf Channel calls, “the most fun 10 acres in all of golf.” The Cradle Short Course is only $50 per person!
Special Golf Fees – available 3 days pre- and post-event (upon availability):
- Course No. 1, No. 3, No. 5: $90 per person, per round (30% savings)
- Course No. 2: $450 per person, per round (9% savings)
- Course No. 4: $350 per person, per round (11% savings)
- Course No. 6, No. 7, No. 8, No. 9: $240 per person, per round (15% savings)
Fall Classic registration, COVID-19 safety measures and other Pinehurst information is available at erefdn.org.
COVID-19 Safety Measures in Place
Below are measures EREF and Pinehurst are collaborating on for a safe experience:
- Socially distanced activities (e.g. outside as much as possible) and increased spacing between seats and tables
- Providing a mask to each attendee
- Sanitizing carts and other equipment
- Meals will be served by Pinehurst wait staff or packaged
- No-contact awards ceremony
- Temperature checks upon arrival
Schedule of Events
Wednesday, September 30
- Welcome Reception and Putting Contest: 6:00 pm (Resort Club Veranda)
Thursday, October 1
- Breakfast/Registration: 6:30 am (Donald Ross Room at the Clubhouse)
- Shotgun Start: 8:30 am (Courses No. 3 and No. 5)
- Lunch: 2:00 pm (Donald Ross Room at the Clubhouse)
This year’s Fall Classic sponsors – confirmed as of August 25, 2020 – include:
Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Send an e-mail to [email protected] for more information.