On Monday, the sun was shining bright at Morgan Run Club & Resort in Rancho Santa Fe, as were many smiles during a special golf tournament to raise money for the non-profit organization Freedom to Live. Equally excited as the golfers, we showed up to promote such a wonderful cause and meet a group of very inspiring individuals!
Big names drew large crowds of people, young and old, to this charitable fundraiser at the premier private club and boutique resort. Admirable athletes, John Schroeder and Greg Welch, hosted the event while special guest and San Diego hero Phil Mickelson offered an instructional session to kick-off the tournament. However, the stars of the show were the individuals supported by Freedom to Live who showcased their ability to overcome obstacles while living with a spinal cord injury and enjoy life’s leisurely activities.
With majestic hills surrounding the course, perfect weather in the sky, a cap signed by Mickelson and a successful fundraiser, we would say this day turned out to be pretty magical for all!
We were thrilled to learn that the tournament yielded thousands of dollars to support this cause and some of the individuals who appeared at the event.
We even ran into former San Diego Padre, Steve Finley, and his wife Meaghan on the green as they tested their skills on Morgan Run’s picturesque 27-hole course. San Diego proved to be a small world, since we photographed Steve and Meaghan’s recent wedding last June! Aaron made sure to jump in a photo with these local athletic superstars.
Back in 1993, Mary Williams was inspired by similar individuals overcoming the complications of living with a spinal cord injury. Mary saw a great need for affordable housing for them, so she established Freedom to Live. This non-profit organization dedicates it’s time to those that desire to live independently in the community in the least restrictive environment and with an improved quality of life. Her dedication and passion for this cause helped the organization to grow over the years. Freedom to Live’s goal is to now have a national network of FTL Transitional Living Centers and Muti-Unit-Campuses in every major metropolitan area.
During the clinic, autographed Phil Mickleson golf pin flags were on display at Morgan Run Golf Club. Mickelson has won 42 events on the PGA Tour including five major championship titles: three Masters Tournaments, one PGA Championship and a British Open Championship. We are confident that he will bring home his first U.S Open title next year to capture a Career Grand Slam (winning all four of golf’s major titles). Go Phil!
Check out more photos from the golf tournament or view images from weddings we’ve photographed at Morgan Run Golf Club & Resort!
