The Martin Wallem ALS Foundation Golf Tournament began in 2003, when Martin’s sister Petra moved to Virginia from New England. Inspired by Martin’s diagnosis at age 31, the event quickly became a cherished tradition in Leesburg, VA.
Today, the tournament continues in Martin’s memory, organized by his family and long-time friend Willy Lutz, and supported by an incredible community of participants and sponsors. Proceeds benefit ALS patients, families, and organizations that made a difference in Martin’s life.
About the Event
The Martin Wallem ALS Foundation Charity Golf Tournament began in 2003, when Martin’s sister Petra moved to Virginia from New England. At that time, Martin had just been diagnosed with ALS at the young age of 31.
After nearly 20 years of living courageously with this disease, Martin passed away in 2020. Although Petra has since moved further south, the tournament continues each year in Leesburg — carried on with the same love, passion, and support from this amazing community.
The Martin Wallem ALS Foundation (501c3) was created by Martin’s family to honor his legacy and continue the fight against ALS. Today, Petra continues to lead the organization of this tournament with the able assistance of long-time friend and Director of Golf, Willy Lutz.
Each year, this event is both a fundraiser and a celebration — bringing together family, friends, and community members to honor Martin’s spirit and support the causes he cared about most.
👉 Learn more at www.mwallemalsfoundation.com
Charities We Support
ALS Association – Northern New England Chapter
Dedicated to discovering treatments and a cure for ALS, while providing life-changing support. This chapter supplied Martin with crucial medical devices and mobility equipment like wheelchairs, lifts, and shower chairs.
🔗 Learn more
Adaptive Sports Partners of the North Country (ASPNC)
Helped Martin, an avid outdoorsman, continue skiing and hiking — even while using a wheelchair and on life support. They made it possible for him to keep doing what he loved most.
🔗 Learn more
Hope Loves Company
Provides camp experiences for children and young adults who have or had a loved one with ALS. Martin’s son, Martin Jr., attended and found friendship, joy, and respite there.
🔗 Learn more
HARK – Hope on the Horizon
Raises awareness and provides financial relief for ALS families. Our dear friend Josh Valentine honored Martin by hiking all 48 of New Hampshire’s 4,000+ ft peaks in just 24 days. Though Josh has since passed, we honor him and Martin each year.
🔗 Learn more
🎥 Watch: Martin’s wife, Cara, shares their story on YouTube
Why This Event Matters
Every year, we are overjoyed by the mix of familiar faces and newcomers who join us. Many “first-timers” walk away saying, “Petra, I’m definitely coming back every year!”
This tournament is more than just golf — it’s a day of fun, connection, remembrance, and celebration. Or, as we like to call it: Marty’s Party!
With Gratitude
From Martin’s family — his wife, Cara, his son, Martin, his siblings, and the entire Wallem family — thank you for your continued support. Please share this event with golfers, friends, and anyone who may want to join us, whether on the course or at the banquet afterwards.
Much love,
The Wallem Family & the Martin Wallem ALS Foundation Team
💙 See you on the course!
📅 When: Friday, October 24, 2025 — Shotgun start after announcements at 10:45 a.m.; Registration opens at 9:30 a.m.; Buffet dinner follows golf
📍 Where: Raspberry Falls Golf & Hunt Club, 41601 Raspberry Drive, Leesburg, VA 20176
