Another successful Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota Webster County tournament is in the books, with more than 120 players competing this past weekend under ideal weather conditions at both the Fort Dodge Country Club and Lakeside Municipal golf courses.

This event, now 44 years strong and sponsored by The Messenger, is a true testament to the strong community ties shared by local partnerships every summer. Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota has been a proud tourney host for nearly 20 years now. Casey and Matt Johnson from the dealership understand the importance of serving the community in a multitude of ways, and recognize the value this particular event annually brings to the county. Their direct involvement — from the planning meetings in the spring through the awards ceremony at dusk Sunday evening — adds a perfect personal touch to the festivities.

The FDCC and Lakeside — two of the finest courses in the region — have been dual hosts since 1991. Not only are golfers able to enjoy the benefits of playing competitively with family and friends, but they’re able to make memories and enjoy camaraderie in a pristine environment thanks to the hard-working crews at both courses. FDCC head professional Steve Fuller and his staff have worked side-by-side for years with Chad Graaf and the Lakeside crew, which again speaks to the importance of combining efforts to make this tournament a success.

We would like to again congratulate this year’s winners: first-timers Cole Jaeschke (men’s division) and Morgan Byson (women), as well as former champions Randy Stults (men’s senior), Peg Christensen (women’s senior), Greg Sampson (men’s super senior) and Kathy Fortune (women’s super senior). All six were of course challenged by the contenders in their respective fields, while being put to the test in stringing two long, impressive days of competitive golf together.

We hope this event — rich in tradition and now spanning nearly five full decades — continues to grow and evolve. At its core, the Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota Webster County golf tournament will always be a summer staple, filled with loyal community involvement and fun times for all.