On Wednesday morning, Morse High School recognized a local relator who serves as chairperson of the Blue and White Golf Classic with the Mainsail Award.

David Flaherty, who graduated from Morse High School in 1972, said he was humbled by the recognition and the good that the Blue and White tournament does for the Morse High School graduating seniors. The tournament was established in 2002 by the Morse High School Class of 1953 to support the Morse High School Scholarship Fund, which began in 1959.

“For over a decade, [Flaherty] has been serving as the chair of this incredible fundraiser,” said Declan Wright, chairperson of the Morse High School Community Liaison Council.

Flaherty joined the Blue and White Golf Classic Tournament in 2009 with a mission to raise money for Morse High School students. According to Flaherty, nearly $300,000 was awarded for the graduation fund last year.

“These aren’t individual awards, they are just a reflection of what’s going on in the [Blue and White Golf Classic] committee and the community,” Flaherty said.

Wright said that under Flaherty’s leadership, the Blue and White Golf Classic has flourished, and the funds raised by the tournament directly help Morse High School students go to college, complete vocational training and earn certifications.

“The Mainsail Award has been a proud tradition at Morse High School for over 45 years as of today,” Wright said. “It’s our way of recognizing individuals who have made truly outstanding contributions to benefit the youth of the greater Bath community.”

Each year, the Community Liaison Council reviews nominations for individuals dedicating their time and energy to young people with previous Mainsail Award recipients like last year’s recipient, Wendy Ulmer, a writer of children’s books and middle school novels. Potential Mainsail Award recipients make a significant impact and exemplify the core ideals of American citizenship, like respect, honesty, individual freedom and equal opportunity.

The upcoming Blue and White Golf Classic will be Friday, June 6, at the Brunswick Golf Course. Registration will begin at 7 a.m., and the opening ceremonies will follow.