Arthritis Foundation

The mission of the Arthritis Foundation is to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and arthritis related diseases. For more information about arthritis or to find out about additional events, programs and services throughout Illinois please visit the Arthritis Foundation, Greater Illinois Chapter.

About

The first Nora Baldner Ladies Classic Golf Tournament was held in 1996. Nora Baldner, a journalist and former news anchor on WGEM-TV, became involved with the Arthritis Foundation after being diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in her hips. She has since had both hips replaced, and continues to host the tournament to raise dollars to support arthritis programs, services and research. As of January 2009, Nora is now the Branch Direcotr for the Arthritis Foundation in West Central Illinois.

In 2001, a second tournament in Macomb was added. The Macomb tournament is held each spring. Since their inception, the two golf outings have netted over $400,000 for the Arthritis Foundation while becoming the "premier" ladies golf tournaments in the area attracting golfers from Illinois, Missouri, and Iowa.

The tournament is unlike all others. A Celebrity Caddy Auction is held the evening prior to the tournament. This gala event no only provides teams with the opportunity to bid on caddies, but to also meet sponsors. Each year, tournament organizers plan a special day on the golf course designed especially for our participants.

By joining the many area businesses that support the Nora Baldner Ladies Classic Golf Tournaments, you will be helping the thousands of people in our area who depend on the Arthritis Foundation for help and hope, while receiving recognition at an event that has become an annual outing for hundreds of women in our area.