Charity golf tournament will return to Longboat Key

For three decades, the late Phil Galvano’s legacy has been honored through fundraising for local schools.

On April 23-24, the 30th Annual Phil Galvano Golf Classic will be held at the Longboat Key Club. The sold out tournament raises money for the Manatee Education Foundation and is hosted by Galvano’s son, former Senate President Bill Galvano.

“My father was a firm believer that there was no better way to a quality life than education, so this annual golf tournament benefiting the Manatee Education Foundation has been such a special and fitting tribute to his legacy over the last three decades,” said Bill Galvano in a press release. “Through this tournament, we have been able to enrich the lives of countless students, providing them with resources and opportunities that they otherwise would not have had.”

Over the past three decades, the tournament has raised more than $10 million, according to the release. The Manatee Education Foundation’s mission is to “provide funding for innovative programs and enhanced educational opportunities for the teachers and students of Manatee County Public Schools.”

“This annual tournament means a great deal to our foundation, and we are deeply grateful for our continued partnership with the Galvano family,” said Kathy Price, executive director of the Manatee Education Foundation. “The millions of dollars raised through this event over the years have significantly expanded our ability to support teachers and students across Manatee County.”

The two-day event begins on Thursday for high-level sponsors and culminates in a full slate of events Friday, including a Nik Wallenda high wire walk, on Friday for all other sponsors.