Published in the October 16, 2015 edition
GRACE ZINCK, pictured left, was on hand to wish golfers luck at the 11th Annual Amazing Grace Golf Tournament on Oct. 9. She is pictured with her mom Cathy, brother Brendan, 11, and sister Audrey, 8.
By JENNIFER GENTILE
MELROSE — By now you might be familiar with the story of Grace Zinck of Melrose. The 11-year-old Roosevelt School student was born with a diagnosis of Trisomy 18 and was not expected to survive.
Grace has defied all odds and has experienced a life of joy, happiness and health. As she grows older her milestones become even more impressive, whether it’s reading, swimming or participation in the Special Olympics. In 2005 Grace’s father Brian worked tirelessly to host the first annual Amazing Grace Golf Tournament, as a way to honor his daughter and make a difference in the lives of others. He raised over $16,000. This year, the event took place on Oct. 9 at Mount Hood Golf Club and took in $18,000 thanks to the 97 golfers, 25 volunteers and 150 people that attended the auction and raffle that followed.
After 10 years the “Amazing Grace Golf Tournament” has raised over $170,000. All of the proceeds from the golf tournament have been donated to charities supporting individuals with disabilities and their families. The proceeds from this year’s tournament will benefit the Melrose Education Foundation. According to Grace’s mom Cathy Zinck, if not for the group’s funding little Grace may not be reading. “We are thrilled to donate to the MEF after seeing a small grant used for a specialized reading program that helped Grace learn to read.”
For more information on Grace’s story or, if you are interested in participating in next year’s tournament, visit www.amazinggracegolf.com.
