Euchre Tournament Crowns Champions
The highly anticipated World Euchre Championship concluded with a whirlwind of excitement, as players from near and far battled it out for the coveted title. Travis Koch and Mike Costilla, of Janesville, Wisconsin, emerged as the victors, securing their place in Euchre history with a total score of 106 points. The tournament, sponsored by Decatur Dairy of Brodhead, Wisconsin, brought together 144 players and numerous spectators at the New Glarus Fest Haus, who were also sponsors of the event.
In a nail-biting finish, Brandon and Al Legler, of New Glarus, clinched second place with a total score of 97 points, closely followed by Jo Genter-White and Tina Zavoralin, of Madison, in third place, earning a score of 96 points. The top-ranking team, Travis Koch and Mike Costilla, were crowned champions and received championship belts, symbolizing their triumph in the battle of cards. All teams received gift baskets of various gifts donated by local businesses, including piles of cheese curds, summer sausage, T-shirts, gift certificates, bottles of wine, and much more.
The World Euchre Championship, organized by the New Glarus Cares Community Foundation, proved to be an overwhelming success, surpassing all expectations. Initially anticipating 20 tables, organizers were thrilled to accommodate 36 tables, seating 144 contestants, highlighting the immense popularity and enthusiasm surrounding the event. Players from Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin competed in the tournament. There was even one from Texas in attendance.
Todd Klassy, New Glarus Cares Community Foundation board member, expressed his delight at the overwhelming turnout and the funds raised. "We are ecstatic to announce that over $2000 was raised at the World Euchre Championship, much of it from outside the community," Klassy said. "These funds will be instrumental in our ongoing efforts to help acquire greenspace at Candy Cane Park, ensuring we save a vibrant and enjoyable outdoor space for the New Glarus community."
The success of the event was largely attributed to the generous sponsorship of Decatur Dairy, based in Brodhead, Wisconsin and the New Glarus Fest Haus, who generously allowed the use of their facility for the tournament. Their support not only added prestige to the championship but also highlighted the strong sense of community that underpins such events.
As the cards were shuffled and the scores tallied, the World Euchre Championship left an indelible mark on both players and attendees alike. With its unparalleled success, the tournament may become a beloved annual tradition in New Glarus, continuing to raise funds and bring joy to the community.
