The McGladrey Classic and the Beauty of Golf

Today’s update is from Ryan McAndrew, assurance supervisor – private clubs for McGladrey. Ryan is based out of the firm’s Naples, FL office, and led that team's Birdies Fore Love efforts. As a result, he had an opportunity to attend this year’s McGladrey Classic.

It is apparent that McGladrey and its partners pour their hearts into The McGladrey Classic. The venue is full of vendors, activities and services to appeal to even the casual golf fan. Everyone on the island working toward a common goal, which was to create a charitable atmosphere focusing on serving the individuals of Special Olympics, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeast Georgia, and Birdies Fore Love charities. McGladrey’s vision and core values of respect, integrity, teamwork, excellence and stewardship are clearly aligned with this event.

My fiancé Ali and I drove from Southwest Florida, and nothing could have prepared us for the beauty of the area. The island is surrounded almost completed by marshland. We passed through St. Simons Island, a town with oak tree corridors and beautiful homes, on the way to Sea Island, where we stayed at The Cloister. The common area of the resort resembles a medieval castle. Our room was unbelievable – from the vaulted ceilings with wooden beams, to the massive bathroom with marble finishing, to the patio area overlooking the marshlands. The accommodations were wonderful but the tournament was the real reason we came to Sea Island!

We arrived at the Seaside Coursewhile the third round of play of The McGladrey Classic was underway. I was amazed by the excitement of all of those in attendance. We made our way through the Fan Village and to the course itself, where we were taken aback by the beauty of the surrounding areas and quality of the playing conditions. We quickly moved to the McGladrey hospitality chalet, which overlooks the 18th green– a great place to get a close-up view and to appreciate the skill with which PGA TOUR professionals assess for the unique playing conditions and then calculate and execute the appropriate approach. We were excited to be a part of all the action of a FedEx Cup event!

Saturday night, McGladrey hosted an evening reception at The Cloister for clients and potential clients. It was a wonderful opportunity to get to know them better. The event was an indoor/outdoor experience with live music, beautiful lighting and wonderful people. The food was spectacular and gave us a true Southern experience with steamed oysters, fried chicken, sweet potato casserole and a shrimp boil. We were truly appreciative to be in the midst of great people in an unreal setting!

The final round of The McGladrey Classic is starting, so it is my cue to sign off. Currently, Chris Kirk and Briny Baird are in the lead, but a lot can happen on the final day of a PGA TOUR event. Whether you are playing or spectating, everyone can appreciate the wonderful experience that is The McGladrey Classic!