San Francisco, CA -- The Academy of Art University Athletic Department will hold its 1st Celebrity Golf Tournament presented by the Wellness and Athletics Foundation on August 11, 2009 at the prestigious Presidio Golf Course in San Francisco, California. The tournament is an opportunity to celebrate the historic first year of Urban Knights Athletics and its entrance into the NCAA. Proceeds from the tournament will go to support the artistic development and wellness of Academy students and student-athletes.

Olympian and World Record Holder Michael Johnson, San Francisco 49er great Roger Craig, legendary musician Huey Lewis, NFL Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown, Olympian and former World Cup soccer player Brandi Chastain, 49er President Jed York and former 49er as well as current Academy of Art University Athletic Director, Dr. Jamie Williams are some of the celebrities scheduled to attend.

“I think it's great to see art and athletics coming together,” Roger Craig said. “What a great combination!”

The day will begin with a lunch and the chance for everyone to interact before a shotgun start at 1:30 pm. In addition to the tournament itself, there will be other special contests that will take place including; longest drive, closest to the pin, and a putting challenge. The Academy of Art University Athletic Department along with the Wellness and Athletics Foundation will provide all participants with beverages and snacks during play. The afternoon on the greens will be followed by a silent auction at 6:30 pm and formal dinner for all participants. Prizes and auction items will be dynamic and creative, as one would expect from an art institution, ranging from unique artwork to Masters Golf tickets.

The Presidio Golf Course opened for public play in 1995 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the nation's top public courses. Located just minutes from downtown San Francisco, the 18-hole course plays 6,500 yards of challenging golf winding through beautiful eucalyptus and monterey pine trees in San Francisco's trademark hills. Designed with tight fairways and strategically placed bunkers, the course will offer a unique and enjoyable experience for amateurs, professionals, and celebrities of all abilities.

For registration and/or sponsorship information, please contact Joy Aud (415-618-6397, jaud@academyart.edu) or Allison Magner (415-618-6173, amagner@academyart.edu).