Kankakee, IL – Three dedicated golfers from Minnesota took on the challenge of playing 100 holes in one day on June 20th at the Kankakee Elks Country Club.
Dave Keethers, Dave Manke, and Ammar Alshash, all residents of Minneapolis, aimed to raise funds for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PANCAN) and successfully collected over $7,500. The marathon day of golf began at 5:15 AM and concluded by 7:30 PM, with the trio facing the dual challenges of the clock and the summer heat.
Dave Keethers explained the inspiration behind the event: “My mother, Eva Ann Keethers, passed from pancreatic cancer, as did our friend Todd Hansen. PANCAN quickly became the obvious charity for us.”
Dave’s mother, Eva Ann Keethers, was a beloved 2nd grade teacher in Kankakee School District #111 for 30 years, making this location especially meaningful for the event. “We chose the Elks because of my ties to the area,” Dave added. “It’s a course you can get around quickly, and it’s a hidden gem that’s enjoyable enough to play five times in one day.”
Despite living in Minneapolis, the team managed logistics remotely, coordinating with the Elks Country Club. The 90-degree heat proved challenging, but the team stayed hydrated and determined, ensuring they completed the ambitious 100-hole goal on the Summer Solstice.
Community support was strong, with donations from friends and family helping to surpass their fundraising expectations. The funds will aid PANCAN’s efforts in advancing research, building community, sharing knowledge, and advocating for patients.
Encouraged by their success, the team plans to take on the “101 Hole Challenge” on June 20, 2025, with hopes of raising even more funds and awareness. Donors interested in contributing to the 2024 event fundraising efforts can donate directly here.
