Competition backed by community
Javelina Golf Classic Brings Competition and Community Support to Alice
ALICE, Texas – Under clear skies, the Javelina Golf Classic attracted competitive players, sponsors and teams wanting to fight for the first place spot.
On March 14, Texas A&M University – Kingsville’s (TAMUK) golf team hosted up to 20 golf teams that consistented of four players per team. The entry fee was $150 per person, and $600 for an entire team.
The event, held at Alice Municipal Golf Course, served as a fundraiser for the Javelina golf program while also giving players and supporters a chance to connect off the course. Supporters had the opportunity to contribute through various donation levels, ranging from $100 to $4,500, with sponsors receiving items such as hole and par sponsorships.
Teams competed across a par 71 course throughout the day, with additional contests like a long-drive competition and a closest-to-the-pin challenge adding to the competitive yet relaxed atmosphere.
At the end of the tournament, Ray Garza’s team and James Miller’s team both posted the lowest score of 50. Garza’s team secured first place after a 12 handicap hole tiebreaker. Kirstin Grabow’s team finished in third place with a score of 52.
For the players, the day was about both performance, competition and enjoying the overall experience. This gave the local golfers the opportunity to show off their skills.
Alessia Rojas, TAMUK student and golfer, shared how she did throughout the game and what helped them to score more points.
“I had three really good putts midway through that helped us out a lot,” Rojas said.
Teammate, Jamie Miller, also pointed to key moments in her round that helped keep momentum going.
“I had two phenomenal drives that landed just before the green, and that really helped keep us going,” Miller said.
Both players shared similar goals heading into the fundraiser, focusing on both competition and team performance.
“Going into it, our game plan was for everyone on the team to try to get at least a birdie on every hole,” Rojas said.
Miller added that the team also wanted to keep things relaxed and enjoy the support around them throughout the day.
“We wanted to have a fun, calm day and enjoy being out here with everyone supporting us, especially our parents,” she said.
With the competitive nature of the tournament, players also had their eyes on what a win would mean at the end of the day.
“It would definitely mean we would get bragging rights,” Rojas said.
For Miller, the motivation carried even more personal significance for herself when she reflected on the year before.
“I won last year, so for my senior year I want to keep that winning streak going,” Miller said.
The event also brought out alumni support, including George Beltran, a 1994 graduate from Texas A&I University, the school’s name before becoming TAMUK.
“I came out for the love of the game and to support the Javelinas,” Beltran said.
Beltran said that while he did not play sports during his time at the university, his connection to the school has remained strong over the years.
“My wife did play sports here, and we still keep up with what’s going on,” he said. “We like to donate every year to show our support for the students and the university.”
Beyond the competition and prizes, the Javelina Golf Classic highlighted the continued support surrounding the program, bringing together players, alumni and community members for a shared purpose and a successful day on the course.
