Five Points’ Long’s Bar Stool Classic puts the “fun” in fundraiser

For eight years, Long’s Bar Stool Classic has putt-putted its way into the hearts of the hundreds who participate in the fundraiser for the Babcock Center Foundation.

The self-guided tour features eight holes of putt-putt at eight Five Points bars, with food and drink specials along the way at the eight participating bars. Come dressed to golf – you might even win the $500 prize for lowest score.

Jon Sears, co-owner of Jake’s, Pavlov’s, The Bird Dog and The Cotton Gin, has been part of the fundraiser since the beginning. Two of his bars, The Bird Dog and Jake’s on Devine, are not only holes on the bar crawl, but Jake’s has served as the official last hole and after-party for the past seven classics.

“We used to have a custom putt-putt area in the back of Jake’s, so back then, we were asked if we wanted to be the final hole, we said yes, and it’s been good ever since,” said Sears. “Bar Stool Classic has always drawn a crowd and goes to a good cause. It’s something we look forward to every year.”

The Babcock Center Foundation is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people with lifelong disabilities by providing vocational training and work opportunities. Carrie Deaton, director of the Babcock Center Foundation, said the event is a great partnership between the center and the Five Points Association.

“One of the really wonderful things about it is it gets our mission in front of a demographic that we would not normally reach,” said Deaton. “That’s one of the great benefits for us, as well as the funds that are raised.”

According to Deaton, the fundraiser donation has increased each year, with last year’s amount coming close to $8,000.

“Last year, we had 250 people take the tour. It was our biggest year ever,” Deaton continued. “And we make sure to put brochures for the center in the bag they’re given. I have folks coming up to me during the event telling me what we do is great or ask what is the Babcock Center and what is it we do because they see our name all over the event.”

As for drinks on the tour, Sears said while drink specials will vary by bar “with a few creative concoctions along the way,” Jake’s and The Bird Dog will offer discounted beers.

“We’re doing a discount on the summer shandy at Bird Dog and Miller Lites for $2.50 at Jake’s,” he said. “I wish I could say we came up with something super cool and creative, but we usually keep it pretty simple and pick a draft beer. It’s still pretty hot out, so it works.”

He’ll have his hands full making sure everything is ready for the after-party at Jake’s. This year’s headliner band will be Waccamaw, a self-described eclectic mix of indie rock, dance, and “jam vibrations to get those feet movin.’ ”

“We try to keep everybody there,” said Sears. “It’s a risky run being the last hole. People can be a little sauced when they get to us, so you have to be careful, but it’s a good, fun party.

“The demographic of who participates goes across all levels,” continued Sears. “You get everything from college kids all the way up to older folks. It’s a really diverse crowd, and everyone’s super into it. Age does not seem to be a factor in who comes out, which is good. Definitely one of my favorite events on the Five Points calendar. We’re stoked and looking forward to it for sure.”

This story was originally published August 24, 2016 at 2:13 PM.