AHOSKIE – Since its inception in 2000, the Josh Lane Golf Classic has generated over $200,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

It would not bother David Lane one bit in the world if another dime did not have to be raised for JDRF.

“When the money stops, a cure will have been discovered,” sad Lane, the father of 14-year-old Josh and tournament director of the Classic.

Until that day comes, David Lane will continue in his quest to help find a cure.

Such was the case last week where 35, four-person teams crowded the 18 holes that comprise Beechwood Country Club to participate in the seventh annual Josh Lane Golf Classic. And, as tradition, the proceeds will help fund diabetes research in an effort to find a cure for Josh and millions of Americans who suffer from diabetes.

Preliminary numbers show that the 2006 event netted $30,574.

“We really appreciate the golfers and the sponsors that, year in and year out, make this event so successful,” David Lane said. “Without them and without those who volunteer to help us out every year, there would be no Josh Lane Classic.”

As they have been since the inception, Glover Construction Company and Roanoke Electric Cooperative have been the gold sponsors of the Classic. Matt Glover and Curtis Wynn (Roanoke Electric) serve as the honorary chairmen.

On the course, the golfers toured Beechwood’s famous 18 holes in an effort to land the first-place trophies. After five hours of eagles, birdies, pars and a few other shots we won’t mention, the team sponsored by Diversified Energy (Tim Rushing, Petie Burden, Andy Daughtry and Eric Wallace) carded a 19-under-par score to capture the top prize. However, the Lee Electrical Construction team also carded a n19 score, but conceded the title to Diversified Energy.

Individual awards were earned by J.E. Dilday (Straightest Drive), Wayne Banty (Putting Contest) and Thom Wicker (Guess the Tees).

“Once again, Eddie Pinnix and his staff at Beechwood did a great job in getting the course ready for nearly 150 golfers,” David Lane said. “Despite the dry, hot weather we’ve had recently, the course was in great shape.”

Meanwhile, Josh Lane was appreciative of those supporting this worthwhile event.

“I want to thank everyone for their support of this golf tournament,” Josh said. “With the money raised and all the other money given to research, maybe a cure can be found soon for me and everyone else with diabetes.”