How the Summit Heroes Golf Classic All Started
In 2022 Ted Coleman and Brandon Adam created a charity golf tournament to benefit wounded Veterans. "Birdies for Brandon" was born. The first year was a resounding success and set the stage for future years growth.
In 2023 The tournament grew to include tributes to local first responders, fire/EMS, and law enforcement. Dave and Cindy Batka sponsor the First responders cup with an annual trophy to held by the winning team.
Dave, a recent leg amputee himself, was given a new lease on life when Summit EMS and Fire heeded the call to an accident in 2024.
The trophy is presented to the winning team by two (3 star) Lt Generals Steven Boutelle and Joe Yakovac
Ted with Terry from Axis sports. Autographed Nancy Lopez hockey stick!
Ted Coleman "the Legend"
In 2024 and 2025 the tournament continued to expand, involving more local merchants and individual sponsorships. It truly is a community event raising over $100,000 per year for charity.
Brandon "Birdie" Adam
On May 5, 2007, US Army SGT Brandon Adam, of Sandpoint, Idaho, was serving as a combat engineer in the 2nd infantry division in Iraq. He was the gunner aboard a route clearance vehicle when he was struck by a roadside explosive formed projectile. SGT Adam suffered the loss of both legs above the knee, serious back injuries, nerve damage, and PTSD
Brandon, who is married and has two daughters, has not let his injuries hold him back from doing what he loves. He is a two time silver medalist in the Mono Skier X at the X games in Aspen, a national champion in sled hockey with the Colorado Avalanche, and has been a member of the US national sled hockey team
Dave Batka With Al Zuckerman
Milestones Along the Way
With every year, your support has helped us do more.
2022
2023
2024
2025
Launched "birdies for Brandon"
Doubled raised funds and participation
Passed $200K raised
Reached $300K and status as premier charity golf event in Summit County