Catfish Classic

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that severely impacts the brain and spinal cord, leading to the gradual loss of muscle control. Over time, individuals with ALS experience increasing difficulty speaking, swallowing, moving, and eventually breathing, while their cognitive functions often remain intact. The emotional and physical toll of ALS is profound, affecting not only the individual but also their families and caregivers. Despite advances in research, there is currently no cure, and treatment focuses mainly on managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life for as long as possible. Each year, about 5,000 to 6,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with ALS — roughly 1 to 2 cases per 100,000 people annually. Named in honor of Jim “Catfish” Hunter, a North Carolina native who died from ALS, The Catfish Classic Golf tournament is the Triangle’s largest independent event partnering with North Carolina’s ALS United North Carolina. It is an opportunity to play golf at one of the area’s premier golf courses and raise money and awareness for the fight to find a cause and cure for ALS.