(Nov. 5, 2015) The Annual Fountain City Football Classic between Fort Valley State and Albany State drew lots of attention and excitement while being played in Columbus, Ga., on November 6, 2015. Afterwards, the annual Fountain City Golf Classic followed. The golf classic attracted players from across the region who teeed-up on Thursday, November 5, on the beautiful 27-hole, public, Fort Benning Golf Course.
Above: Robert Anderson calls golfers to order to share tournament results
Fort Benning Golf Course has three distinct nine-hole courses: The Bradley, The Marshall and The Patton. Players exercised their skills by playing nine holes on the Bradley course, and nine holes on the Marshall. Organizers left the Patton course open and available, so that members not participating in the golf tournament could play there.
The three award-winning courses at Fort Benning are named in honor of former World War ll generals and the courses live up to the challenge, enjoyable for players of all skill levels. “Everyone had a fantastic time,” said AAGD official photographer, Al Cobb who attended with his wife, award-winning golf professional Addie Cobb. “The weather was perfect and all of the golfers really stepped up to the challenge.” Major Cobb retired as an infantry Major in 1988, after 26 years, retiring from Fort Dix., N.J.
Abrams Hall
This year’s event was hosted, and expertly coordinated by, Robert Anderson. Players were treated to the finest and stayed in the General Abrams Hall-military billets where over 800 newly built rooms provided spacious and convenient accommodations, about five minuets from the golf course.
Overall tournament winner was Hayward Hudson, pictured left.
Hudson hit his shots accurately that day and captured the win. He was all smiles upon accepting his award and winners check. He looked like he would treasure his big win for years to come.
Also participating in the outing, and sharing his love of the game with guests, was distinguished U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop (D-Ga).
Photo: U.S. Congressman Sanford Bishop with golf professional and educator Addie Cobb.
Bishop represents Georgia’s 2nd congressional district, serving since 1993. His district is located in the southwestern part of the state and includes Albany, Thomasville and most of Columbus and Macon. The Democrat overcame some health issues in October 2013, successfully beating a tumor in his throat. Bishop is much-loved among his constituents and, has long been a champion of Fort Benning and its growth. An avid golfer, Bishop makes his way all around the area playing–and at times winning, in local tournaments.
Photo: Edgar Jones (l) and Robert Osborne (r) happily pose with their trophies.
Hospitality for the annual tournament was executed in a grand, traditional, Southern style, with an abundance of delicious food that was served continuously throughout the golfing day. Selections heaped upon plates included collard greens, chicken, potatoes and gravy, and so much cake….”there was so much, until people took home food on covered plates,” said Al Cobb, who also helped himself to the abundance of substance.
Oscar Mosley showcases his copy of the African American Golfer’s Digest.
With a long season in the region, golfers gravitate to Georgia tournaments and events that promise a welcomed crowd and good eats. Fort Benning is just the right venue for hosting these outings, catching up with fellow golfers and, meeting new friends.
Everyone is welcome to attend the annual Fountain Golf Classic where a good time is just about guaranteed!
Roving photojournalist, Major Al Cobb, retired. Cobb has received combat awards including the Silver Star, the third highest com at award in the military along with numerous other medals, awards and citations for his honorable service.
