BIG DADDY CELEBRITY GOLF CLASSIC

By W.A. Muller

his year’s much anticipated Big Daddy Celebrity Golf Classic at Oheka Castle in Long Island successfully exceeded expectations, despite a morning drizzle and major events that threatened the celebration concurrently in NYC. T Among the noteworthy celebrities to hit the links were host Rich ‘Big Daddy’ Salgado, Michael Strahan, comedian Tracy Morgan and actor Hisham Tawfiq of The Blacklist, to mention just a few. Since 2010, Salgado has raised the charity event that draws a wide variety of celebrities from the worlds of professional sports, music and entertainment. After an unfortunate COVID-19-related hiatus, it returned this year, while expanding its purpose through an established partnership with SHER women’s organization, founded by Anzhelika Steen-Olsen. Subsequently, the typically golf-centric event boasted 125 strong women’s empowerment luncheon, followed by an evening gala. More than 300 guests were brought together in support of Rich “Big Daddy” Salgado and his co-host Anzhelika Steenolsen to raise money and awareness for MVP (Merging Veterans and Players); this year’s beneficiary. The not-for-profit was founded by Jay Glazer and Nate Boyer and pairs combat veterans with professional athletes through physical fitness programs and peer-to-peer support. They assist with the transition, promote personal development and show veterans they are never alone.

The inaugural luncheon “Women SHER”, sponsored by David Yurman, Dior/Bloomingdales Soho raised funds for this year’s charity. Along with key speaker and two time Emmy winning humanitarian, philanthropist and producer Lucia Kaiser, songwriter/speaker and activist Carol Maraj, Miss New York Andreia Gibau, WGA producer and director Judy San Roman, other notable speakers include Shama Dhanani, Asia Lee and Farzana Niemann.

A sublime entertainment portion featured special performances by Emmy nominated Broadway singer N’Kenge and violinist Rebecca Cherry. Bejeweled in handmade, one-of-kind hats worn throughout the event, select guests supported the fashion of Leonora Bulychova of A-Elita, who’s creations have graced the covers of fashion and lifestyle magazines like Vogue and Bazaar.

“Our SHER events in many ways reflect our diverse world. When we come together and celebrate these memorably authentic moments with passion, ingenuity, and gratitude, magic happens”, Steenolsen explained. She expounded by saying, “This platform allows women to share stories that represent them in the fullness of their humanity and vulnerability, while building a powerful journey and working in solidarity to create a more equitable and inclusive world.” She deeply believes in the power of story, as “everyone has one,” Anzhelika concluded.

Celebrity participants included Michael Strahan (Super Bowl Champion & TV Personality, Tracy Morgan (Comedian/ Actor), Hisham Tawfiq (Former US Marine & Actor NBC The Blacklist), Mike Tannenbaum (ESPN NFL Front Office Insider NY Jets & Former Dolphins GM), Dennis Seidenberg (Stanley Cup Champion Boston Bruins & NY Islanders Coaching Staff), Tony Richardson (Former NFL Full back), Andreia Gibau (Miss New York 2020), Marvin Washington (Super Bowl Champion Denver Broncos), OJ Anderson (NY Giants Super Bowl MVP), Jill Nicolini (Reporter), Ray Crockett (2x Super Bowl Champion Denver Broncos) and Marco Battaglia (NFL Veteran & Rutgers Hall of Fame).

Event sponsors include Empire Auto Group of NY, Dryvebox, Arizona Beverage Company, David Yurman,T-Mobile, Dior/Bloomingdales Soho, Delta, NIKE, Engineered Tax Services, Flowers by Brian, Vittorio’s Italian Steak House, Matteo’s Restaurant, and Cardinal Bakery of Carl Place.