JARVIS—In 2015 four friends took a day for themselves to enjoy golf, food, drink, and laughs. In the spirit of fun, and to keep the men in their lives away, they called it the Vagina Open (VO). As their annual tradition continued, others wanted to join, and this inspired them to launch the Vagina Open Charitable Classic (VOCC) this year.
The inaugural VOCC tournament on September 18, 2024 saw the all-female event raise $37,012.47 for the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice (NHCN) Foundation.
The tournament, dinner, and silent auction were organized by Leora Ferras, Jen Clark, Bobi Kwarciany, and Heather Hannah, the original VO foursome. Looking back Ferras recalls they “just wanted one day completely away from the grips of doing everything for everyone else in their family … but the name was so head turning when we said it over the years that so many women would say, ‘How can I play in that?’”
JARVIS—The first ever Vagina Open Charitable Classic on September 18, 2024 saw 165 women out for a day of golfing and socializing. Together, the women raised over $37,000 in support of the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice. —Submitted photos. 
JARVIS—The first ever Vagina Open Charitable Classic on September 18, 2024 saw 165 women out for a day of golfing and socializing. Together, the women raised over $37,000 in support of the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice. —Submitted photos. 
JARVIS—Organizers of the Vagina Open Charitable Classic (VOCC) golf tournament presented a cheque for $37,012.47 to the Norfolk Haldimand Community Hospice (NHCH) Foundation. Front (l-r): Leora Ferras (VOCC), Heather Hannah (VOCC), Jen Clark (VOCC), Tracey Webster (NHCH), Bobi Kwarciany (VOCC). Back: NHCH representatives Crystal Pogson, Robin Martin-Godelie, Shannon Porter, Michael Godelie, Andrea Binkle (NHCH Executive Director), Kristina Kett, Beth Ellis. —Haldimand Press photo by Sheila Phibbs.
The four friends considered growing their day away into a tournament, but only if it was for charity. Ferras says, “Thus, the VOCC was born in the year that is now our 10th VO!”
She explains that having the NHCH as the first beneficiary was an easy decision because “we have all lost a parent.”
She adds, “It has been our honour to help this cause and the response from the communities and businesses and beyond has been the confirmation that we made the desired choice for many in Norfolk and Haldimand.”
Response to the tournament, held at The Greens of Renton, was overwhelming as 165 women participated from Haldimand, Norfolk, neighbouring counties, Pike Lake Resort, and even Buffalo. Every level of sponsorship was filled.
Ferras says, “The vibe and buzz that day was incredible. Our hearts remain overflowing with joy and gratitude.”
Tracey Webster of the NHCH attended the tournament and recalls, “I loved how much young energy was in the room. There was a good balance of players from age 19 and up. It was fabulous to have many young people there who really believe in what we’re doing.”
The funds raised in the first VOCC far exceeded their original goal of $20,000, coming close to doubling that mark.
Ferras says, “This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our community, friends, family, golfers, volunteers, and generous sponsors. New friendships were forged, unforgettable memories created, and vital funds raised for a cause deeply ingrained in our hearts.”
Plans have begun for next year’s VOCC and the organizers have committed to having the NHCH as the beneficiary once again. For updates, visit facebook.com/groups/1089868548981220.
