By Bonnie Adams
Government Editor
Marlborough – Golfers are notorious for playing in just about all sorts of weather, so when 144 of them gathered at the Marlborough Country Club July 18, they were not fazed by the hot and humid conditions. But for these golfers, there was a much more important reason for them to be there that day than just to play a round of golf; they were there to participate in the 19th annual R.F. Wood Kids Classic Golf Tournament to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of MetroWest (BGMW).
The late R.F. Wood, who was a long-time resident of Hudson, was an advocate of all kinds of programs for children, his son Jeff Wood, Sr. said. BGMW, which serves kids in greater Marlborough, Hudson and Framingham, was especially important to his father, Jeff said.
“He believed in the club because it not only gave kids a place to go, it was also a place for them to learn about life in general and the important values they need to succeed,” he said. “The club does a great job doing that.”
Jeff noted that his family was pleased at the “great turn-out” because, it was, he said, “really a testament to the hard work everyone at the club does. They don's get nearly enough credit for what they do.”
“And today is about fun – not about winning,” he added. “It's a day to enjoy being with family members and friends.”
BGMW President Fran Hurley, noted that for its part, the club was honored to partner with the Wood family once again.
“This is such a great event that really benefits our kids,” he said. “This is our 19th year and the third year in a row that we have sold out, which is remarkable considering the economy.
“Many of the Woods family members and friends are here helping out today,” he added. “And we definitely want to thank our great sponsors who believe in the importance of helping our kids.”
The presenting sponsor for the tournament was DCU for Kids Charitable Organization. John LaHair, the public relations manager for DCU, noted that BGMW is a group that DCU feels is very important to support.
“If we can make a difference now in the lives of these kids,” he said, “then the pay-off will be immeasurable for many years to come.
“I have been there to see the work the staff does. I can's speak highly enough about them. When you see what they do every day it's incredible. And when you look at the kids faces there, seeing their happiness and confidence, you can see all the hard work is paying off.”
After enjoying a day of golf, participants were invited to have lunch, which was provided by Panera Bread, and then to attend a cocktail reception and dinner sponsored by Patriot Ambulance. Other supporters of the tournament included Akibia Inc. and Fitts Insurance.
During the dinner, Hudson resident Neil Ahearn was presented with the R.F. Wood Award. According to Hurley, this award is presented each year to an individual to honor the “qualities that R.F. Wood valued – including outstanding dedication and volunteerism to BGMW.”
BGMW serves over 3,500 children and youth each year – up to 650 kids a day. For more information, go to www.bgcmetrowest.org.
“Today is about fun – not about winning,” Hurley said. “It's a day to enjoy being with family members and friends.”