NAVAL BASE SAN DIEGO, Calif. –
103 military members from 17 Nations teed off at Admiral Baker Golf Course on Oct. 3 officially commencing the 14th Conseil International du Sport Militaire (CISM) World Military Golf Championship.
Admiral Baker Golf Course’s scenic landscape makes for an ideal course to show off what the United States Armed Forces has to offer. With rolling hills and blue skies providing a spectacular backdrop the 17 Nations marched in as the Navy Band Southwest played to kick off the opening ceremonies. After the CISM and host nation’s flags were hoisted to their respective anthems, NBSD Commanding Officer Capt. Robert A. Heely took the stage to welcome all participants.
“Naval Base San Diego is the biggest US Naval base in the pacific, and normally we’re welcoming foreign ships into our harbor. So, let me say, it’s different, but just as exciting for the base to welcome you to our shores deep in the San Diego Canyon.” Capt. Heely said.
Following Capt. Heely’s remarks Mr. Steven Dinote, Armed Forces Sports Council Secretariat and U.S. Chief of Delegation to CISM, provided the rich history of CISM Golf and its roots within California. He then introduced the Official CISM Representative – Zimbabwean Air Vice Marshall Simon Nyowani.
“I feel greatly honored to be allowed to officiate at the 14th World Military Golf Championship which is being hosted by one of the great sporting Nations, the USA.” Nyowani said. “Good luck to all the competitors. You truly reflect the CISM motto! Friendship through Sport. I wish you all a fabulous week.”
Finally, Navy Rear Admiral Daniel Cheever was called to the stage to declare the event open and the crowd erupted in applause.
CISM, or the International Military Sports Council, was founded in 1948 as a way for military service members across all nations to meet on the sports field rather than the battlefield. Over the years their motto “Friendship through Sport” has brought together service athletes from around the world to participate in high level sporting competitions to include Military World Games. Each year CISM organizes more than 20 championships, which all 140 member countries may partake.