BANDITS VICTORIOUS IN FIRST PRO BASKETBALL GAME PLAYED IN KELOWNA

The Vancouver Bandits and Bandits Community Foundation have announced that its second-annual Bandits Golf Classic charity tournament raised over $130,000, with all proceeds supporting programs and initiatives that support and empower youth across British Columbia. Presented by BC Spray, the sold-out event brought together over 150 golfers, sponsors and volunteers to The Redwoods Golf Course in Langley on Thursday, July 30, 2026. The record setting total exceeds the $55,000 raised at last year’s tournament by over 136 per cent, with every dollar raised going toward providing vital tools, experiences, and support for youth to thrive. Supported by countless donors and sponsors, and additional funds raised through a 50/50 raffle and live auction, the tournament united local business leaders, community members, and team supporters for a day of friendly competition, camaraderie, and meaningful impact. "The Bandits Golf Classic has become a day people across this province circle on their calendar," said Dylan Kular, Vancouver Bandits team president. "We are honoured to work alongside the partners, donors and volunteers from every corner of the region who believe a kid's access to basketball should not come down to what their family can afford. We raised $130,000, which will go straight into programs that get young people across BC into the game of basketball who otherwise would not have had the chance." Beyond an enjoyable round of golf, the event featured friendly competitions and activations on the course, including a million dollar hole-in-one, closest-to-the-pin and longest-drive contests, complimentary food and beverage sampling from local businesses, pyrotechnics and performances by internationally-renowned magician Anmoldeep Singh, creating an atmosphere where players were able to unite in support of an important cause. Throughout the event, attendees enjoyed valuable networking opportunities while also gaining insight into the Bandits Community Foundation's extensive efforts, programs and key initiatives, including: - Court Projects: Building and refurbishing outdoor basketball courts across BC - Bandits School Tour: Delivering cost-free basketball workshops and practice instruction to high school teams - Community Champion Initiative: Providing youth and families in need with the special experience of a Vancouver Bandits game - Indigenous Basketball Collective: A partnership with the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council to foster opportunities for Indigenous players and coaches Established in 2024, the Bandits Community Foundation is a registered charitable organization dedicated to increasing life-time participation in the sport by providing more basketball for more people across British Columbia. The Bandits Community Foundation’s mission is centred on uplifting communities, one bucket at a time. The success of the second-annual Bandits Golf Classic would not have been possible without generous contributions from the sponsors, players and volunteers. The Bandits Community Foundation remains committed to giving back to the community and uplifting our youth, with planning already underway for next year’s tournament. Companies, golfers and sponsors interested in being involved can email info@banditsfoundation.ca for more information.