Bags Fly for a Cause Join the Tri-State Charity Cornhole Tournament

Bags Fly for a Cause

Join the Tri-State Charity Cornhole Tournament

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

A little friendly competition, a lot of community spirit, and a classic backyard game are coming together for a great cause this spring.

Sandy’s Cares, a newly formed nonprofit serving Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia, is building momentum after officially becoming a 501(c)(3) this past January. Since launching in May of last year, the organization has already made an impact through fundraising efforts, donations, community events, food and blood drives, and sponsorships across the region.

Jennifer Goodwin, Manager Slots Shift at Sandy’s Racing & Gaming, shared that the mission is deeply rooted in local pride. “We are truly dedicated to supporting Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia through fundraising, donations, community events, food and blood drives, sponsorships, and so much more,” she said. “Our motto is simple: ‘We work here. We live here. We give here.’”

To keep that momentum going, the group is inviting the public to join in on a lively and meaningful event—the Tri-State Charity Cornhole Tournament, presented by ServiceMaster Restore, on Sunday, May 17th. The indoor tournament will be held at Sandy’s Racing & Gaming in Ashland, Kentucky, with check-in beginning at 1:00 p.m. and bags officially flying at 1:30 p.m.

The event is open to everyone—from seasoned pros to casual backyard players and complete newcomers. Teams can enter for $65, while single players can register for $35. Those who just want to enjoy the atmosphere can purchase a social ticket for $10. All participants and attendees must be 21 or older, with IDs required upon entry.

Beyond the competition, attendees can expect an ACA-level tournament experience, cash prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, bar-style bites and drinks, and a chance to connect with friends and community partners.

For those unfamiliar, cornhole has humble but somewhat debated origins. Some trace it back to 14th-century Germany, while others say it gained popularity in the American Midwest—particularly Ohio and Kentucky—during the 20th century. The modern version, featuring wooden boards and bean bags filled with corn kernels or resin pellets, has grown into a nationally recognized sport with organized leagues and televised championships. Fun fact: a bag that lands on the board earns one point, but sinking it through the hole scores three—making for exciting, come-from-behind victories.

Whether you’re aiming for a perfect toss or just there for the fun, the tournament promises something for everyone. Goodwin encourages the community to get involved. “To keep that momentum going, we’re hosting this event and hope to see a great turnout,” she said enthusiastically.

Registration is simple—visit the Events page at SandysCares.com or scan the QR code on the event flyer. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses looking to support the cause.

Best of all, every toss, ticket, and cheer supports a bigger purpose. All proceeds from the event will benefit Sandy’s Cares and its ongoing mission to serve the tri-state community.

So, mark your calendars, gather your team, and get ready to toss for a cause.