Operation Sand Trap

Local golfers send golf equipment to troops

Tools

Frank Benningfield helps load golf clubs which are being shipped to the troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Benningfield and Illini Golf Headquarters owner Bill Ott are the organizers of Operation Sand Trap.

By Marc Strauss

Story Published: Jan 7, 2009 at 6:21 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jan 7, 2009 at 8:12 PM CDT

Peoria's Frank Benningfield isn't using a bumper sticker to support the troops. He's using golf.

"I'm standing on a golf course enjoying the game in April," said Benningfield, "and I thought, 'I'm over here enjoying what they're protecting me from over there, the least we can do is raise some golf balls to send over."

Frank and his friend Bill Ott, the owner of Illini Golf Headquarters, had an idea – to send golf equipment to our forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. A lot of golf equipment.

"96,946 golf balls and 2,200 clubs," revealed Ott.

Its called Operation Sand Trap and the mission is simple, to give the troops some recreation and a reminder of home. The golf balls and clubs are being packed up and shipped to Norfolk, Virginia. From there the U.S. Navy will swing into action, delivering them to the Middle East.

Benningfield says the generosity has been overwhelming.

"One donor gave us two complete sets of Bobby Jones commemorative clubs and we’re giving those to the Wounded Warrior program of the PGA Tour. You just can’t measure that type of cooperation."

Benningfield and Ott hope to play another round of Good Samaritan again next year. And even though they've been swinging a club since they were kids, the game's never given them this much satisfaction.

Tuesday, Jan 13 at 4:23 PM Rob B. wrote ...

Thanks Marc for doing this story. You did an outstanding job with it, as you ALWAYS do. You're a pro.

Thursday, Jan 8 at 4:00 PM Tiffany Ferlmann wrote ...

Thank you USA troops! Thank you WEEK for following the story! Thank you Bill Ott! Dad we are so very proud of you! You have always improved the lives of others...you are an example to live up to! Thanks!

Wednesday, Jan 7 at 9:07 PM Erin Darnielle wrote ...

Awesome! What a great idea!

Wednesday, Jan 7 at 7:34 PM Christy Loy wrote ...

What a tremendous program these guys have started.

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