SHUBENACADIE: Sunshine and springtime temperatures can only mean one thing for many – golf season is just around the corner.

Players of all skill levels are preparing to dust off their clubs for another year on the links. For those wondering when their first game will come, Const. Dave Forsyth has a suggestion.

May 28 will mark the 10th anniversary of the Dale King Memorial Golf Tournament at the Links at Penn Hills in Shubenacadie.

“We all want to get the clubs out and shake off some of the rust,” said Forsyth. “What better way to do that than participating in an event that benefits our communities in East Hants. All proceeds from this event go to the local food banks.”

Thirty-six teams participated in the event, raising more than $6,000, in 2008. Numbers are already approaching last year’s figures and Forsyth hopes they can reach the 40-team mark.

“That’s our maximum number, he said. “We’re already around 30 teams, so anyone interested should be making plans fairly soon.”

The cost is $75 per golfer, while those with a club membership pay $35. Participants are requested to be at the golf course by 8 a.m., on the morning of the tournament to register, followed by a 9 a.m., shotgun start.

Leading up to the tournament, Forsyth put the call out to businesses, which in the past have been very generous with their support. He said organizers are still looking for sponsors and prize donations, in addition to the ones already pledged.

“The business community has been very kind in the past,” said Forsyth. “And Penn Hills has been extremely good to us as well. In addition to the round of golf, we will provide participants with dinner and a chance to win prizes. We will also have a 50/50 draw and prizes for closest to the pin, hole-in-one, centre of the fairway, putting and on the green.”

Entry forms are to be returned to the Enfield RCMP detachment by May 8, so organizers can plan and submit numbers for prizes and meals. Those wishing to book a golf cart can do so by contacting the Penn Hills Pro-shop.

In its nine year history, the charity event has raised more than $34,000. Last year’s proceed recipients included Caring and Sharing Angel Tree Food Bank, Middle Musquodoboit Valley Food Bank, Hants North Community Food Bank, Shumilacke Food Bank and the East Hants Crime Prevention.

Anyone looking for more information can contact the Enfield RCMP detachment at 883-7077.