And it did, although the tournament teed off about two hours late.
"The celebrities hung in there, sponsors hung in there, the volunteers who were out on the course," said Nicole Valvano. "I felt for them and everyone was excited to get out on the course."
The rain may have put a damper on turnout, but organizers still hope to raise a million and a half dollars for cancer research, primarily through corporate sponsors. Businesses forked over $24,000 to enter a four-person team, and play 18 holes with a celebrity.
Jamie Farr proved he can still make people laugh, promising anyone $10 not to discuss his game.
Some young Tar Heel fans got their picture taken with coach Matt Doherty.
Fans who waited out the rain did not have to fight the usual crowds to get autographs from their favorite celebrities.
"I'm waiting to get one right now," said fan Joan Fletcher. I'm chasing my heroes around to get an autograph."
Fletcher's hero is radio talkmeister Rush Limbaugh.
In a year without Michael or Mia, the radio host was one of the tournament's most sought-after celebs.
"It's marvelous, really well run," Limbaugh declared.
• Credits
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