As we approach the 10th U.S. Kids Golf World Championship and its fourth year at Pinehurst (July30-Aug. 2), we extend a sincere thank-you to everyone in the Sandhills area for making our "little" tournament such a huge success.

Many are astonished to learn that the U.S. Kids Golf Foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The group's vision is to provide kids and their families the opportunity to participate in the game of golf through instruction and competition.

We lack the resources to employ a large team to run the world championship, but we have gained multitudes of people in the community who believe in giving back to the game. Our tournament is made possible almost entirely through the efforts of dedicated volunteers.

The world championship draws approximately 1,300 of the best golfers (ages 5 to 12) from over 35 countries worldwide. Some will travel from as far as Australia and South Africa, from China to the Czech Republic. The kids are exposed to other kids just like them from around the world. We believe this opportunity will advance their development as human beings.

For many, playing in the world championship is a dream come true, and their memories of Pinehurst will last a lifetime. Whether it is the chaotic unison in which the players march down the street during the opening ceremonies parade or the announcement of their names on the first tee, the greatness of the volunteers' contributions cannot be measured.

While we thank each of our volunteers past and present, we also invite anyone not familiar with the world championship to come out and see what it's all about.

Christopher Carme

U.S. Kids Golf Foundation

Norcross, Ga.