Mesa Verde relief

In the wake of the most catastrophic natural disaster in U.S.

history, local golf clubs are opening their doors for relief.

Mesa Verde Country Club is hosting a tournament today, while

Newport Beach Country Club is holding a tournament Monday, with all

proceeds from both tournaments being donated to the American Red

Cross and designated for Hurricane Katrina relief.

The local community is seeking to put a dent into the billions of

dollars of damage inflicted upon the Golf Coast region.

“We’re just doing something to raise money,” Mesa Verde head

professional Tom Sargent said. “We thought we’d use the club to

benefit some people that need some help. As Americans, that’s all

we’re trying to do, and we’re trying to make it fun for everyone.”

Around 100 people are expected to be present for today’s 1 p.m.

shotgun start at Mesa Verde, Sargent said. And with the $250 green

fees, about $25,000 is expected to be raised for the relief effort.

There is also expected to be people donating money who aren’t

playing in the tournament.

“I think it’s going to be a fun day,” he said. “Everybody usually

feels good doing something like that.”