Eighty participants enjoyed a fun Friday night on the town - or on the golf course, in this case - playing in the June Friday Afternoon Couples tournament at Spring Valley Golf Course.

While the couples enjoy golfing, they said it wasn't the competition that drew them to the event. It was the camaraderie, the relaxing atmosphere and just being able to have an evening out with their spouses that inspired them to drive to the Elbert County golf course on a Friday evening.

Two more FAC tournaments are scheduled this summer - July 11 and Aug. 1. They begin with a shotgun start at 5:30 p.m., which is followed up by a buffet dinner and socializing. The cost is $78 per couple, which includes greens fees, cart and dinner.

Parker's Adam and Karen McDowell played in the event for the first time on June 13 and will come back and play again.

"We had a blast. It was really a good time," said Karen McDowell, adding that the other participants treated them like they'd know them forever. "It was a nice pleasant evening, especially for the price."

Dave and Jeanette Ahern of Parker have played for many years with long-time friends and Elizabeth residents, Harold and Lorrie Pickenpaugh.

"We do it for the camaraderie and the golf," Dave Ahern said. "Not that we score well, but we have a good time."

Castle Rock's Dana Lensing said she and her husband, Tony, enjoy playing in the 9-hole, 4-person scramble so they can "get out and go do something fun . . . . It's a really relaxing course, and it so peaceful out here."

Tony Lensing said fellow Castle Rock residents and friends, Joe and Sheri McCurry, introduced them to the event, which gives them a chance to have a couples' night out while their children also spend some time together.

"The people are so nice," said Joe McCurry. "It's relaxing and just good fun."

Patty and Kevin Clark, Elizabeth residents who have been playing in the event for five or six seasons, said it is great opportunity for beginning golfers to enjoy the game and for 2-somes to meet other couples.

"We never play with the same people," Kevin Clark said. "We've met a lot of fun people out here."

Patty Clark added: "It's a kick. We have so much fun."

The deadline to register for the July 11 FAC tournament is July 8. Golfers should register for the Aug. 1 event by July 29. For information, contact the pro shop at 303-646-4240.

Spring Valley is located east of Parker and north of Elizabeth at 42350 County Road 17-21.