Macon-Bibb County Fire Department hosts annual MDA golf tournament

According to Fire Chief Shane Edwards, more than 100 people registered for the annual 18-hole tournament, but someone important was missing this year.

October 18, 2024

Denise Turner,

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Macon-Bibb County Fire Department raised money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association with its annual golf tournament at Bowden Golf Course on Friday.

According to Fire Chief Shane Edwards, more than 100 people registered for the annual 18-hole tournament, but someone important was missing this year.

The son of retired Battalion Chief Jeff Sanders, Brandon Sanders, died from Muscular Dystrophy in July of 2024. Brandon was just 29-years-old.

According to a news release, Brandon Sanders was the inspiration for event. In the 1990’s, Former Battalion Chief Jeff Sanders worked with the MDA to start the fundraiser after his 5-year-old son was diagnosed with the disease.

At the 2024 MDA Tournament fundraiser, Sanders spoke about his son, “It’s a little bit bittersweet, this tournament today because usually he’s here going around talking to people. We miss him today, but the tournament still goes on. We’re still playing it; we’re still taking up money for MDA.”

In his obituary, the late Brandon Sander is described as a fun-loving history buff and avid sports fan. After his death Fair Haven Funeral Home and Cremation Service says the family asked for donations to the MDA, instead of flowers.