First responders took ceremonial tee shots on the picturesque No. 9 hole at Chambers Bay on Weds., Aug. 18, to kick off the 2010 U.S. Amateur Championship and highlight a special offer.

The United States Golf Association will conduct the championship Aug. 23-29 at Chambers Bay, the world-famous course that Pierce County built in University Place. Through the support of Regence BlueShield of Washington, active-duty and retired commissioned law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers and 911 dispatchers will receive complimentary admission to the U.S. Amateur on Weds., Aug. 25.

Regence President Jonathan Hensley joined representatives of police and fire agencies in hitting ceremonial tee shots to highlight First Responders Day. Hensley also presented a charitable donation to representatives of Behind The Badge Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides support services to families of law enforcement officers who die or suffer catastrophic injuries in the line of duty.

Behind The Badge Foundation was represented by Dr. Sam Smith, board president; Frank Kampsen, founding president; Craig Stewart, executive board member; and Kit Ford, executive director. Other key supporters who attended the event included Tacoma Mayor Marilyn Strickland, Lakewood Mayor Doug Richardson, former Pierce County Executive John Ladenburg, and former Tacoma Mayor Bill Baarsma.

To receive the complimentary admission on Aug. 25, eligible first responders must present their official department ID or badge at the admissions tent. As a reminder, youth 17 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult.

Conducted by the USGA, the U.S. Amateur is the nation’s oldest golf championship and has been won by some of the most famous names in the sport. The championship will be televised by The Golf Channel and NBC. Weekly passes are available for $65, while single day tickets are $25. For more information visit http://www.2010usamateur.com .