Annual Vince Lombardi Golf Classic raises money to fight cancer

MENOMONEE FALLS -- For 42 years, celebrities from the sports and entertainment world have hit the links in the name of Lombardi, for the Vince Lombardi Golf Classic -- an event that helps raise money to fight cancer.

The Golf Classic at the North Hills Country Club is the flagship event for the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation. Hundreds hit the links Saturday, June 9th to raise money to fight a disease that's claimed millions of lives, including that of the legend known for his passion to win.

"Not only does it drive toward finding a cure for cancer -- it also helps those who currently have the disease cope and heal," Golf outing chair Ben Haas said.

The Lombardi Golf Classic is one of the oldest two-day charity golf outings in the nation. In its 42-year history, it has raised more than $15 million, with the help of professional athletes past and present.

"They want to give back," Haas said.

"I think it's personal for everybody. Everybody has someone they know -- someone who is close to them had the struggle (with cancer)," Green Bay Packers kicker Mason Crosby said.

Crosby's grandmother was diagnosed with cancer. Crosby says it's something he thinks about every day, especially when he's on the course as co-chairman of the Golf Classic.

"Cancer, you don't know when it's coming. You don't know when it's going to hit you and it can be individual, it can be a family, it can be whatever it might be," Crosby said.

Crosby may kick a football in front of 70,000 people at Lambeau Field, but he said he actually gets nervous playing in the golf tournament.

"We get used to being professional and going out and playing football games. It's kind of nice to get out of your comfort zone and being in a different situation," Crosby said.

A charity dinner and silent auction were held Saturday night, during which the Lombardi Foundation raised $80,0000.

The foundation will continue fighting cancer throughout the year.

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