Photo by Andy Hu on Unsplash.com
The tournament was born back in 1974 in Lowell, Michigan. Scott McNeal (alias Gus Macker) got together with 18 friends and $18 to play a friendly 3-on-3 basketball game in his parent’s driveway. The tournament continued to grow, and due to the tremendous interest from outside communities, it took to the road and moved its home base from Lowell to Belding in 1987. Today, Macker is played in outdoor and indoor courts in over 75 cities throughout the country, drawing over 200,000 players and 1.7 million spectators. But even with this growth, it continues to feel like a “hometown” game. The Gus Macker tournament is always a wholesome activity for all ages and talent levels.
2020 would have marked the 29th anniversary of Gus Macker in Ludington but, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament had to be canceled. The tournament has also been cancelled for 2021 due to restrictions still in place.
Because of its longevity and beautiful location, the Ludington Gus Macker Committee and the Ludington & Scottville Chamber of Commerce were inducted into the Gus Macker Hall of Fame in 2018.
In the 28 years of Macker in Ludington, over $300,000 has been returned to the area’s schools to purchase uniforms and equipment. These teams donate their time in setting up hoops, fences, and cleaning up. In order to make the tournament run smoothly, nearly 400 other volunteers are needed, from checking-in participants to being a Gus Buster.
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!
Fun Halloween parties and trick or treating take place in West Michigan including Ludington, Scottville, Manistee, and Oceana County.
Ludington is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
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Ludington’s North Breakwater Light is the number one lighthouse to see in Michigan! Take a trip along the breakwater path to see it up close!
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake’s Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.
If there’s one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it’s excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down here in Ludington! Nightlife here includes festivals, cozy restaurants, and local performances.
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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