Mark Rypien wins closest to the hole contest; Winnings go to Tahoe Fund

On July 18th 15 of some of the world’s most legendary athletes and entertainers competed in Lake Tahoe for the Korbel Closest-to-the-Pin Challenge as part of the American Century Championship, currently being played at the Edgewood Golf Course. NFL Former Pro Bowl Quarterback Mark Rypien who was the inaugural tournament champion took home the title after teeing off from Hole 17 and placing his ball just seven feet away from the pin winning a $5,000 donation for The Tahoe Fund from the Korbel Toast Life® Foundation.

This third annual competition brought together athletes from golf, basketball, football, and baseball along with some of TV & Movie’s most well-known personalities including 10-time LPGA Champion Annika Sorenstam, NBA All-Star Guard Stephen Curry, and Comedian Bill Engvall for an event full of friendly banter and competition.

Finishing in second place was Friday Night Lights Actor Lucas Black with a powerful drive landing his ball just eight feet five inches from the hole. With an impressive swing Former World Series MVP Bret Saberhagen took home the third place honors by finishing 21 feet five inches feet away.

Fellow sports legends participating included NASCAR Driver Danny Hamlin who was up first to the tee and landed just 22 feet from the pin. The powerful swings of NFL superstars were impressive but not enough to contend for the title including Chicago Bears Kicker Robbie Gould, Denver Broncos Punter Britton Colquitt and Green Bay Packers Linebacker AJ Hawk. Comedian Bill Engvall kept the competition friendly but entertaining as each participant prepared he had no shortage of jokes to give.

“We are honored to be able to once again offer an exciting and fun way to support a local charity like The Tahoe Fund as well as bring together some of the greatest athletes and entertainers in the industry for the Closest-the-the Pin Challenge,” said Gary Heck, owner and president of Korbel Champagne Cellars.

About The Tahoe Fund
The Tahoe Fund will improve the extraordinary natural environment of the Lake Tahoe Basin by building broad support and funding for projects and programs that restore and enhance the Lake for the enjoyment of current and future generations.