Global Messenger Jim Cowick speaks at Hooters Golf Tournament

Special Olympics athletes Jim Cowick and Keith Hayden, both of Charlotte, joined 88 other golfers for the first Hooters of the Southern Carolinas region Golf Tournament to benefit Special Olympics North Carolina. The tournament, which was held at the Traditional Golf Course in Charlotte August 31, is one of several fund raising initiatives that Hooters is holding for Special Olympics through September.

Jim joined SONC President/CEO Keith L. Fishburne in opening the tournament with remarks about the importance of the year round support Hooters gives through funding and donated meals for Special Olympics events. During his remarks, Jim shared that one of his favorite moments in golf competition was when he participated in the 2007 Special Olympics National Golf Invitation held in Florida where he won a gold medal.

Keith Hayden and Jim, who are avid golfers, officially opened the Hooters’ Tournament play both hitting a ceremonial first drive down the number 10 fairway at the Traditional Golf Course.

In addition to funds raised through the golf tournament, Hooters is also collecting donations during its fantasy football promotion in their restaurants in South Charlotte, Uptown Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, Hickory, and Lake Norman to benefit Special Olympics North Carolina.

Hooters stores in Anderson, Greenville and Rock Hill, SC, are also participating in the fantasy football promotion with proceeds benefiting Special Olympics South Carolina.