Philanthropy On The Fairway: The Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic and Gala Returns to the Green

Established as an annual “go to” Long Island event, this year’s Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic tees off on July 17-18 at the iconic Oheka Castle in Huntington, and promises to build on its own legacy. The event is once again co-hosted by Rich “Big Daddy” Salgado, Chairman of the Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic and Anzhelika Steen-Olsen, Founder of the SHER organization.

The list of celebrities from professional sports, broadcast television, and entertainment, continues to grow as the event approaches. Taking to the links this year, among others, are actor Michael Strahan, Justin Tuck, actor Hisham Tawfiq, country singer Jillian Cardarelli, Scott Ferrall, John Randle, Jim Trotter, Merril Hoge, Neil O’Donnel, ESPN NHL Tonight host Kevin Weekes, and NFL Network Host Brian Baldinger. Others not taking to the green include comedian Tracy Morgan, Curtis Martin, Stanley Cup champion Dennis Seidenberg and Jeff Hoffman, founder of Priceline and chairman of the Global Entrepreneurship Network. A surprise musical guest joins the events’ entertainment during dinner on Monday evening.

Co-host, Anzhelika Steen-Olsen is pictured here wearing earrings from sponsor David Yurman’s High Jewelry Genesis Collection. These particular ones are Seaweed Style Rose Gold and Titanium; Pink Sapphire 10 cts; and Polychrome Sapphire 18 cts retailing for $65k.

Concurrent with the golf outing will be the SHER Women’s Empowerment Luncheon which was a well attended introduction to last year’s event. “We’ve lined up some great new sponsors this year, adding to those already with us,” says Anzhelika Steen-Olsen, founder of SHER and co-host of the Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic. She expressed excitement at having Dior Bloomingdale’s SoHo, and David Yurman on board adding to existing sponsor, Arizona Iced Tea. A noteworthy participant in the luncheon includes Brandi Chastain, two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist, coach and sports broadcaster.

The highlight of the evening will be a gala dinner with awards and recognitions, along with musical entertainment.

Oheka Castle is a most enchanting venue for the event. A palatial, elegant, Guilded Age estate of the late Otto Hermann Kahn, this French style chateau sits at the highest point on Long Island. It boasts stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. It is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and is a premier destination hotel in Suffolk County. Anzhelika and Rich are proud to hold the Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic and SHER Women’s Luncheon in a place of such grace and history.

As a Long Island event, (Big Daddy is a local), this year’s benefactors are local non-profits. Pop Earth focusses on providing holistic health services and options for individuals with special needs (Autism and other developmental disorders). Kids Need More creates opportunities for children, families, and young adults struggling with cancer and illness so they may celebrate life in a safe and positive environment. Once again, Michael Brown, CEO of the Empire Auto Group is back to support with sponsorship.

“We’re very excited about the interest and committed participation in the Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic this year,” says Salgado. “And we’re thrilled to partner with all these charities that help those in need”

For more information about the Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic and to reserve tickets, visit: bigdaddysgolfclassic.com