Herald photo by R.D. Keep

Winners of the 16th Annual Danny Joe Golf Tournament for The Heart Connection children’s cancer camp was from left Brent Jack, Dara Paulsen, Brett Paulsen and Vince Hargrave. More than $9,000 was raised at the tournment held Friday at Oskaloosa Golf.

Danny Joe will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on.

The young man, who succumbed to cancer and the tender age of five in 1987, has been celebrated with a golf tournament for the past 16 years. Friday was another successful venture as the tournament raised $9,000 for The Heart Connection, a children’s cancer camp near Des Moines.

Danny Joe Cornish was stricken young but lived big. One of his largest contributions is the logo now displayed by The Heart Connection. Danny Joe created the icon as a celebration to those who brought sunshine into his life. It now resembles the love by staff to children with cancer and their families.

This year’s tournament was again held at Oskaloosa Golf, the home for every Danny Joe event. More than 120 players from 30 teams participated. A host of other volunteers add to the success of the events. The tournaments have raised nearly $100,000 to help other children and their families.

Individual groups have developed themes in their hole sponsorship to help raise funds. Gimmick games give the golfers an opportunity to win prizes or just have some fun while playing the grand old game.

The winning team this year was Brett and Dara Paulsen, Vince Hargrave and Brent Jack, who shot an 18-under 54. The quartet was the best-dressed foursome with matching knickers, socks, shirts and caps ala Payne Stewart.

The Hy-Vee Shootout winner was Mary Sauter, who collected $250. Connie Overbergen won the Jumer’s Casino Package. Other funds are raised through raffle tickets.

The Optimist Club of Oskaloosa has participated as a hole sponsor for the past seven years. Their funds go directly to The Heart Connection, but also the club gains credit nationally as the International organization is raising funds for children’s cancer research. The club has raised more than $1,500 for The Heart Connection at the Danny Joe Tournament.

Harvest Point Golf Pro Jeff Smith has hit tee shots to raise funds at every Danny Joe Tournament. Smith was joined by his son Tyler, a member of the Oskaloosa High School golf team. Edmundson Golf Pro Jeff Petersen has also lent his talents since coming to Oskaloosa. The lunch was served and facilities provided by Dr. Salami’s.

The 2010 event will be conducted on Friday, June 11 at Oskaloosa Golf Course.