Every Epson Tour athlete knows the importance of volunteers, no matter how large or small their role in the week is. Without them, the tournament wouldn't run smoothly, and the hard work is appreciated, but Tomita Arejola took that appreciation to a whole new level in Milford, Conn., this week.

During the first round of the Hartford HealthCare Women's Championship, Arejola learned that it was her volunteer caddie Richard's birthday and knew she had to do something special to celebrate him. The 23-year-old was hoping for an under-par round, but regardless of the score, she planned on taking him out to dinner.

"We had spent a lot of time working together, practicing, and he's played so many times on this golf course, so we had a pretty good relationship," said Arejola. "He told me that morning, 'If it makes it any better, it's actually my birthday.' He's such a quiet guy and keeps to himself, so I asked him if he had any plans with his family. 'I'm going to try to shoot an under-par score for you today, but we'll celebrate it later.'

"That day, I had a really, really rough day. I think I three-putted the last hole, and I haven't cried about golf in a long time. After that round, I burst into tears with him. He hugged me, and I said, 'I'm so sorry. I really wish I could make the day better for you.'"

Selflessly, the Filipino put the round behind her and carried through with her dinner surprise. She arrived at the restaurant before Richard and orchestrated an entire celebration – cake, singing, and all.

"When they gave me the check, they brought out a birthday cake, and then they all started singing Happy Birthday," said Arejola. "The whole room also started to sing Happy Birthday. I could tell that he was really grateful."

Arejola didn't do this to be thanked. She wasn't looking for a pat on the back or recognition; she wanted to show her gratitude to the locals who help make her dreams a reality each week.

"Honestly, I didn't think of it as giving back to him because that would mean that it's a favor given back to me," said Arejola. "Even if he wasn't doing anything for me, I would have loved to do it for him. I just think that volunteers need more credit than they usually get. I know a lot of people say thank you, but we forget that these are whole weeks for them. Even if it's enjoyable for them to be around golf, they still take time out of their lives to do this for us."

birthday

Tomita Arejola Makes Lasting Impact on Connecticut Community

Related Articles