Clouds filled the sky and humid air swirled around 16 golf teams Saturday after a brief shower before the start of the fifth annual Henry "Hank" White Golf Tournament at Cherokee Rose Country Club in Hinesville.

The golfers had hoped the weather would hold out, but for the first time in five years, according to tournament director Derrick Taylor, they were unable to finish.

"The majority of teams had completed at least 14 holes before the rain hit," Taylor said. "My team only completed 10. So the tournament committee decided to score the low first nine holes of the tournament. All the golf participants understood the situation. But it was still a blessing and we were satisfied with the results."

Taylor said the committee is preparing its final report with a list of the winners, prize winners, sponsors and the amount they were able to raise.

The tournament is named after Henry ‘Hank’ White who served as the chairman of the deacons’ board at First Calvary Missionary Baptist Church and was the state chaplain for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He had a sincere love for children, helping the community and a passion for the game of golf.

Josephine White, his widow, said the year he died he played in a golf tournament with this two sons Henry and Derrick and they won.

She said after his passing a golf tournament to aid children with scholarships seemed the logically way to honor his memory. She added the economy did affect the outcome.

"We had fewer teams and fewer prizes," she said. "But overall I think we are going to do fine. We hope to give seven scholarships."

"If we can help just one child I feel we have accomplished something," she said.

The Courier will report the results when they become available.