Don’t drop the ball... in the fight against cancer!
One of the most anticipated highlights of tournament day is the signature Ball Drop, a unique and 
one-of-a-kind fundraising idea conceived by Jeff Block. Combining his love of flight with raising money for Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James), Jeff created a bucket device that is specially designed to drop golf balls from the side of his helicopter. Those who wish to support the OSUCCC-James, and try their luck, can purchase a numbered “ball.” After all the balls are dropped, the closest to the hole wins $2,000! Watching hundreds of golf balls fly from the sky is quite a sight to see on tournament day!
This highly awaited event has come a long way since its inception at the 1999 Block Memorial Tournament when 300 golf balls were dropped onto the green. In 2009, the tournament featured 600 golf balls for the largest drop yet! Over the years, this component of the tournament has raised $100,000, and a few of the winners were Rick Germain, Brian Doyle, Bill Farrar and the Winding Hollow Pro Shop Team.
Each ball costs $20 with proceeds supporting the construction of a new Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute. Balls are available for purchase in the weeks leading up the tournament as well as tournament day. The winner does not need to be present to win.
To purchase balls, contact the OSUCCC-James Development Office by email or by phone at (614) 293-3752.