VALDOSTA — As the second day of the 2008 American Cancer Society Golf Tournament kicked off, it was clear the day was about more than just golf.

Over 50 teams of four players participated at Stone Creek Golf Course, helping to raise money for the American Cancer Society.

The event, which began Wednesday, continued with a 1 p.m. shotgun start Thursday, followed by a round of golf, and concluded with the golfers reflecting on the day and having a good time around a grill of sausages prepared by Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office volunteers.

The latter part of the day is what the tournament is more known for by the players, enjoying a day spent with good people volunteering for a good cause.

“The tournament is wonderful, and the round is good company,” Witt Fackler said.

With volunteers manning the grill, driving water to the golfers and donating money to enter the tournament and to sponsor a hole, it put the 27th edition of the tournament in a great position to raise money.

“With having no expenses and having close to 60 teams each year it’s definitely an accomplishment,” said Lowndes County Community Manager of the American Cancer Society, Ashley Braswell. “We reach our goal each year, which is close to $30,000.”

The tournament has grown from an eight-team event at the Valdosta Country Club to its current form of three days and over 200 golfers due to people willing to give to the cause which touches almost everyone.

Despite the poor economy the tournament has again raised at least $30,000.

“We’ve been blessed with great weather and great people,” Paulk said. “It’s just about raising money for cancer, having fun and being around great people.”

The tournament concludes today with another round starting at 1 p.m., and the day finishing off with another dose of drinks, sausage dogs and good company.

“It’s a great tournament with great volunteers,” Braswell said.