Despite some major challenges, Birdies for Charity raised a record amount of money this year. Monday morning, the program handed out checks totaling 10.5 million dollars to nearly 500 local charities.
Each year, local residents pledge to their favorite charities based on the number of birdies scored by the pro golfers during the John Deere Classic. And then the title sponsor matches 10 per cent.
Volunteer chair, Paul Scranton, says this year's total beat last year's record by 1.7 million dollars.
"This places us in the top three of all PGA Tour events which is incredible. And it increases our substantial lead in per capita giving with more than $28 per person in the Quad Cities. Truly amazing."
Birdies set the new record even though the John Deere Classic moved from its normal dates in July, to August opposite the summer Olympics. And for the first time in decades, last year's winner did not return to defend his title.
The tournament will return to its usual dates next year.
More than 17,000 donations were received.