First day of the 50th Henry Bontempo four-ball golf tournament at Franconia Golf Course in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – In Springfield, a longstanding golf tournament honors one of the city’s greatest golfers and his legacy.

A four-day golf tournament honoring former pro golfer, Henry Bontempo began at Franconia Golf Course. Henry served as a head golf professional at Franconia from its opening in 1929 to 1968. In the tournament’s 50th year, Henry’s granddaughter and other family members were among the participants, joining over 60 teams with 140 golfers competing against each other.

One of the organizers expressed to 22News, their joy in seeing so many people coming out to participate and honor the memory of Henry. “It’s a great spot the course is in amazing shape, it’s a public course, and all the best players from all the different country clubs come and participate so it’s a great competition and great weekend,” said Sam Fortsch.

This four-day-long tournament ends on Labor Day, when the Championship matches take place. Winners will get $250 certificates to the Springfield Country Club and Pro shop.

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