Upstate Carolina Medical Center exceeded its goal of raising $6,000 for the American Cancer Society by actually taking in $8,912 for the Relay for Life program.

"We are just as happy as can be," Administrative Resident and golf tournament organizer Austin Brown said. "It was a great effort that brought in nearly $3,000 more than we hoped for. I want to thank everyone at the hospital who helped, as well as the many sponsors and players. We have made a giant stride in the fight against cancer."

The third annual tournament was held Friday, April 13, at Cherokee National Golf Club in Gaffney. It was a beautiful, clear day that started and ended with a slight chill in the air. However, most of the day was warm and sunny.

"We couldn't have asked for a better day," Brown continued.

The captain's choice tournament had 29 teams and more than 100 players. It was a sanctioned tournament. The day started with lunch provided by Outback Steakhouse. The chicken for the sandwiches was grilled at the golf course.

Last year, the hospital raised $5,748; and in 2005 it raised $5,640.

The first place winners for the three flights were…

First flight… American Cancer Society (Charlotte)… Todd Ohlmeyer, Chris Tatum, Tom Hull, and Mark Vallesky. Score: 56.

Second flight… Hobart Service… R.J. Herber, Walt Haevenaars, Rex Hawley, and Rusty Cagle. Score: 60.

Third flight… Peachy Kleen… Lee Rhyne, Rich Lancaster, and Allen Smith. Score: 67

"Of course, the reason for the tournament is to raise money for Relay for Life," Brown said. "I want to give special thanks to the many sponsors. Without them, this could not have been the success that it is."

"This is one of several projects the hospital has to raise money for the Relay for Life," Brown said. "Now we can concentrate on the Pie-in-the- Face contest, which is a big favorite at the hospital."

Each year, the hospital employees buy $1 votes to see who will get a pie in the face during Hospital Week. There are four categories… Administration, Doctor, Manager and Employee. "We usually raise several hundred dollars at this," Brown said. "Just as importantly, we get a lot of laughs and fun."

Relay for Life in Cherokee County will be Friday, May 11.