One can always pay back a monetary loan, but is forever in debt to those who are kind.

I am indebted to all the kind supporters, committee members, players, sponsors, car dealers, volunteers and North Halton Golf & Country Club who have made the Bill Smith Invitational Golf Tournament successful for 30 years.

What started out as a few friends playing a game of golf many years ago became a strong desire and opportunity to raise funds for cancer. Little did I know as the years escalated, so did the support and it became my resolve never to quit since fighting cancer is an unfinished project. Our special community and dedicated committee members "chipped in" about $700,000 for a worthy cause. I would like to raise the "flag" to all of you for making this event happen year after year.

Unfortunately, my age and poor "stroke" of health has caught up with me, leaving me with my own personal "handicap". I regret that being in the "rough" in 2007 meant that I could not oversee the 31st year of the tournament. I have come to acknowledge that the time has come to put the "ball at rest" and say thank you for all the good years. I have many special memories that made these years a "slice".

I would like to challenge the good people of this community to continue finding ways to raise funds for Cancer Assistance Service-Halton Hills. The practical help for cancer patients is needed, growing and appreciated.

Saying goodbye doesn't mean anything. It is the time we spent together that matters and not how we left it. For now I leave you to watch over making the "birdies" and "eagles" fly for a cause that is very dear to my heart.

As my health improves I intend to dust off my shoes and hat and I'll be back. Thanks again to everyone.

Bill Smith,

Bill Smith Invitational Golf Tournament

Past President CAShh