Press release
BATAVIA — The Arc GLOW Abili-TEES Golf Tournament will celebrate its 50th anniversary this year, marking a major milestone as one of the longest-running charity golf tournaments in Genesee County.
Founded in 1976 by Danny Lullo and Jack O’Malley to benefit Genesee Arc, the tournament has raised significant funds over the decades to support programs for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Another early leader, Hank Valerych, one of the original founders of Genesee Arc, helped establish a $1,000 raffle in conjunction with the tournament, an honored tradition that continues today in his memory.
“This year, as we celebrate 50 years, we will be sharing memories from the past five decades and offering some exciting raffle giveaways,” said John Prospero, vice president of transportation at Arc GLOW and current tournament committee chair. “Many of our sponsors and golfers have supported this event for years, and we look forward to celebrating this milestone with them.”
“Fifty years is a tremendous achievement,” Prospero added. “While both the tournament and Arc GLOW have grown over time, our mission has remained the same. This day is special because it brings together the people we support, our employees, community partners, and golfers. We look forward to another great day on the course with friends, old and new.”
Sandy Konfederath, coordinator of public relations and development, who has more than 30 years of experience with the tournament, reflected on some memorable moments.
“One year, the former Pepsi of Batavia and the Houseknecht family brought professional football player Frank Reich as part of their foursome,” she said.
Over the years, the tournament has evolved, including changes in location and a transition from stroke play to a scramble format.
The 50th Annual Arc GLOW Abili-TEES Golf Tournament will be held Monday, July 20, at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia. Registration is now open. To sign up or learn more, visit ArcGLOW.org and click on “News & Events.”
Arc GLOW is a nonprofit organization supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.