More Than a Game: How Golf Events Build Community, Connection, and Impact

Golf might just be a sport on the surface, but for a lot of people, it is so much more than that. When you take a step back and look at what happens around the game, it is easy to see how golf brings people together in a way few other activities can.

That became especially clear to me after talking with Lisa Lombardo, who now runs The Mission Tour. Her story stuck with me. It is a powerful reminder of what golf events are really about - creating connection, building community, and leaving a lasting impact.

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The Story Behind The Mission Tour

The Mission Tour started all the way back in 1986. Lisa’s husband, Craig, created it with one goal in mind: to bring people together through golf while supporting causes that mattered.

Since then, The Mission Tour has grown into something much bigger than just a golf tournament. They recently celebrated their 1,000th event - a milestone that speaks to the community Craig built over nearly four decades. Hundreds of golfers have come together through The Mission Tour, not just to play the game, but to give back, connect, and build lasting friendships along the way.

When Craig was diagnosed with cancer, he asked Lisa to keep The Mission Tour going. Lisa wasn’t a golfer herself, but she had always supported Craig behind the scenes. Stepping in to lead was a new challenge - and a big one.

But Lisa said yes. She learned everything she needed to learn. She showed up for the community Craig had built. And she’s continued to honor his legacy in the most incredible way.

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Lessons from Lisa on Running a Golf Tournament

There is so much to learn from Lisa’s story, especially for anyone planning a golf tournament for the first time.

You do not need to be a golfer to plan a great event

Lisa proves this better than anyone. You do not need to be a scratch golfer to run an incredible tournament. What matters most is that you care about the people coming to your event and that you are willing to put in the work to make it memorable.

Clear communication makes all the difference

One of Lisa’s biggest priorities is making sure everyone involved feels informed. She sends regular emails, updates pairings and start times, and makes sure players know what to expect before event day.

People remember the experience, not their score

At the end of the day, most golfers will not remember every shot they hit. But they will remember how your event made them feel. Focus on creating a great experience — thoughtful details, a welcoming atmosphere, and moments that bring people together.

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Why This Story Matters

Lisa’s story is about so much more than golf. It is about love, legacy, and building something that lasts. It is about stepping up to do something new, even when it feels uncomfortable. And it is a reminder that golf events are not just about the game - they are about people.

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Planning a Golf Tournament? Partaake Can Help

If Lisa’s story has you thinking about running your own golf tournament, we would love to help.

Partaake is golf tournament software built to make planning easier. You can create an event website, collect registrations and payments, manage pairings, communicate with players, and handle all the moving parts in one place.

Whether you are planning a charity golf tournament, corporate outing, or community event, Partaake gives you the tools to bring people together and create something special.

Ready to get started? Learn more about Partaake golf tournament software here.

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