World-class professional golfers are preparing to compete in the SAS Championship, taking place October 9-15 at the Prestonwood Country Club in Cary.

More than 650 volunteers help ensure the tournament will be an enjoyable experience for players and fans alike. In addition, these volunteers have enabled the SAS Championship to earn $4 million for charities since its inception in 2001.

This year’s volunteer force includes Bobby Owens of Cary who will be returning for his 9th year, serving as a marshal on the 18th hole. Years ago Bobby was inspired to volunteer at the tournament after learning his grade school friend and high school golf teammate Chip Beck would be competing at the SAS Championship.

Bobby returns each year for the chance to help charity and get an up-close look at professional golf.

To show his support for the SAS Championship and the YMCA of the Triangle, Bobby is participating in the PGA TOUR Volunteer Challenge, a competition that honors more than 100,000 PGA TOUR volunteers nationwide while supporting local charities.

From now until 2 p.m. ET on October 15, volunteers like Bobby are asking people to vote at tourchallenge.com.

Those who do not know a volunteer can vote directly for the tournament. At the end of the voting period, the volunteer team with the most votes will present a $10,000 check on behalf of Astellas Pharma US, Inc., to their chosen charity from a list provided by the tournament. The tournament also has the opportunity to earn up to an additional $65,000 in charitable bonus funds based on the total number of votes received collectively by volunteers and the tournament.

As a YMCA member, Bobby witnesses the Y's youth development and healthy living programs in action, and through the Y’s mentorship activities, has spoken with many young athletes at the Taylor Family YMCA branch.

Bobby’s competitive spirit is alive, and he’s been atop the Volunteer Challenge leaderboard for weeks. As of today, he has a wide lead with 933 votes.

Show your support for local volunteers and charities, and cast your vote today at www.tourchallenge.com.