WASHINGTON, July 23, 2012 -- The PGA of America teamed up with the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress and Disabled Sports USA to host the fifth annual bipartisan "Congressional Charity Golf Classic." The Classic pairs current and former Members of Congress together with wounded warriors in a tournament to benefit the Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project and the PGA Foundation's PGA H.O.P.E. (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) which is designed to introduce golf to veterans with disabilities.

When it comes to supporting the nation's warriors, Republicans and Democrats' partisanship goes by the wayside. More than 20 wounded warriors, teamed with 35 former and current Members of Congress, to participate in the Congressional Charity Golf Classic. The wounded warriors have successfully completed golf programs supported by the Wounded Warrior Disabled Sports Project and PGA H.O.P.E.. They represent the hundreds of wounded warriors that have benefitted from the programs.

For Maj. Justin Constantine, U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, the sport of golf literally helped save his life. After being shot in Iraq while on patrol in 2006, he suffered severe facial damage, a visual impairment, and a traumatic brain injury. After receiving a Purple Heart, Constantine began to play golf as part of the Disabled Sports USA Warfighter Sports program. As a result of his involvement with the sport, he is now "back in the fight," working as part of a counterterrorism team with the Department of Justice, giving motivational speeches, and participating in numerous regional golf events. Maj. Constantine also won the Classic's long drive contest with a drive over 300 yards.

"It never ceases to amaze me what a significant role the game of golf plays in providing enjoyment, comfort, and a special healing for our country's heroes," said PGA of America President Allen Wronowski. "The Congressional Charity Golf Classic is a link between those who have sacrificed so much and our former and current elected officials of our country. Regardless of your political beliefs, there is a common denominator at this event – giving back to those who stepped up first for us."

PGA Foundation
Since 1916, The PGA of America and its members have dedicated themselves to improving lives through golf. Founded in 1978, as a charitable foundation to raise funds to support junior golf, the mission of the PGA Foundation is to "Improve Lives Through Golf," with specific focus on America's youth, persons with disabilities and minorities.

About The PGA of America
Since its founding in 1916, The PGA of America has maintained a twofold mission: to establish and elevate the standards of the profession and to grow interest and participation in the game of golf. By establishing and elevating the standards of the golf profession through world-class education, career services, marketing and research programs, The PGA enables its professionals to maximize their performance in their respective career paths and showcases them as experts in the game and in the multi-billion dollar golf industry. By creating and delivering world-class championships and innovative programs, The PGA of America elevates the public's interest in the game, the desire to play more golf, and ensures accessibility to the game for everyone, everywhere. As The PGA nears its centennial, the PGA brand represents the very best in golf.