CARLYLE - The third annual Wade Robertson Memorial Golf Tournament took place on Aug. 31, drawing a full field of 104 players.
This event, which sold out in just three hours, has quickly become a significant and eagerly-anticipated gathering, with participants looking to honour the memory of Robertson, who suddenly passed away in May 2022 at the young age of 47.
Wade Robertson was a beloved figure in Carlyle and was known for his love of hockey. He was asked to coach the Carlyle Cougars of the Big Six Hockey League for the 2021-22 season. His dedication to his family and friends was missed by many in the town.
His sudden death left a void that many still feel, and the tournament has provided a way for those who knew him to come together and celebrate his life in a manner that would have made him proud.
The Cougars host the event, and it is their desire to keep his memory alive through something that embodies the spirit of camaraderie and competition that Robertson cherished.
It was an 18-hole, four-person scramble that had a shotgun start with no special rules. Cash was paid out to the top two teams. First place went to the Dakota Rose team from Carlyle and second place went to the Vance Big Eagle team from the White Bear First Nations.
Clayton Geiger, Ben Johnstone, Marlee Cormier, Tyler Fleck and Amy Geiger organized the tournament, and they had no idea that it was going to sell out so quickly.
Golfers from all over the southeast corner attended the event, not only to honour Robertson, but for the chance to win some of the big prizes that were up for grabs.
Clayton Geiger did not have a dollar value on prizes, but he said the sponsors went above and beyond to make this event incredible.
On the fifth hole, Rylan and Cindy Weir from Weir's Catering served up lunch.
The event also served as a fundraiser for the hockey team and other organizations in the town.
The Carlyle Cougars Hockey Team wants to ensure that Robertson’s memory is never forgotten, and they will continue with the annual tournament.