36th Annual Strelitz International Golf Tournament: A swinging success

The Strelitz International Academy’s (SIA) 36th Annual Golf Tournament, held on Wednesday, August 28 at the Virginia Beach National Golf Club, proved to be another hole-in-one event. Known as the Bob Josephberg Classic, this tournament remains SIA’s premier annual fundraiser, and this year’s event raised nearly $150,000 thanks to the incredible generosity of 82 sponsors and 102 tournament participants.

These funds play a crucial role in supporting the future of Jewish education and leadership in Tidewater by ensuring financial sustainability and expanding access for all SIA students.

The event kicked off with opening remarks from David Leon and Babbi Bangel, SIA Golf Tournament co-chairs, before participants teed off in a Florida best ball tournament format. Players had a chance to win luxury prizes—a brand new Mercedes Sedan and Mercedes SUV —courtesy of Charles Barker Automotive and Towne Insurance, during the highly anticipated hole-in- one competition.

“We are truly grateful for the continued dedication and generosity of our community and business partners,” said Leon. “It’s inspiring to see both familiar and new faces each year enjoying a fun day on the course while supporting SIA’s mission.

Our entire school community extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making this our most successful fundraising event yet.” Amy Weinstein, SIA board chair and Heather Moore, SIA head of school, drove around the course greeting players and distributing cool neck towels to beat the heat. Moore expressed deep appreciation for the event’s success, highlighting the importance of the funds raised in light of the school’s remarkable enrollment growth over the past five years. “This tournament provides critical funding that allows us to offer more scholarships to our expanding student body. We are incredibly thankful to our donors, whose support helps us deliver a robust Jewish and International Baccalaureate (IB) education to our students.”

Participants were treated to a delicious, boxed lunch and a post-play reception catered by Cardo Cafe.
The tournament also featured a Silent Auction with items such as hand-crafted pens generously donated by Steve Wohlgemuth of WoogWorks, and a bottle of Weller Wheated Bourbon donated by Levi Washburn, both of which contributed to the overall fundraising efforts.

The winners of the 1st flight were Miles Leon, Ben Leon, Wes Bourdon, and Eddie Bourdon. SIA extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors, players, and volunteers who made the day a tremendous success.

Save the date for next year’s 37th Annual Strelitz International Academy Golf Tournament on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at Virginia Beach National Golf Club.

SIA’s upcoming Annual Fall Festival takes place on Sunday, October 27 at the Sandler Family Campus.

For more information, contact Carin Simon, SIA director of advancement, at 757-424-4327 or csimon@strelitzacademy.

SIA Thanks 2024 Golf Sponsors