It’s become a labor of love for Dr. Kelly Nelson. And if you ask Nelson, he’d probably tell you that using the word labor isn’t probably a fair one when it comes to the Medbrook Children’s Charity Golf Classic held at the Pete Dye Golf Club just outside of Bridgeport.
“It’s not about labor, but it’s all about love. Sure I might moan this week about the last few details that need ironed out, but I’ve got no problem with that,” said Nelson. “I’ve always hoped this event defines me because it’s who I am.”
Few would argue the event doesn’t define Nelson. And that definition would be one of success and caring when it comes to the 19th annual event that has become what he’s often called “a party with a purpose” that has raised more than seven figures that goes to various causes in the region.
“No and heck no,” said Nelson when asked if he thought the event would ever be this successful or as big as it has become. “I didn’t have a clue because I didn’t even know how to put on a golf tournament when we started this. Now it’s a golf tournament and a social event that draws people in because we’re able to do positive things by impacting lives with the funds that are raised.”
Plenty of funds are raised thanks to those taking part at the event that sees the golfing begin at noon at the festivities start at 9:30 a.m. with a brunch. The good news is that, as usual, there is no shortage of volunteers or participants.
“We have 188 people taking part this year and we capped it at that number last year,” said Nelson. “It’s kind of funny that there are people begging to take part in this and I wouldn’t be surprised if there aren’t a few that have snuck in and will do that same. That’s when you know you’re doing something good when you not only have one of the biggest fields you can think of, but you have dozens more that are ready to fill in for anyone who would happen to drop out.”
The bulk of the funds raised go to two primary areas benefitting students in the Harrison County School system. The money is utilized by the Harrison County Schools Children’s Apparel Program and the Harrison County Schools Nurses’ Discretionary Fund. Summer food programs, Clarksburg Little League, and the therapeutic equine center for Stars and Strides here in the city also have been beneficiaries in recent years.
Tens of thousands are donated annually to programs. Nelson said that after 20 years the total amount raised is approaching $2 million. He said what’s made it more special is that it is local businesses and people doing it.
“When it first started, we had a lot of pharmaceutical companies involved, but there are no companies involved like that. It’s not a bad thing, but we now have all local people involved and that makes this even more special and unique,” said Nelson. “We’ve been able to switch and fill the field because of word of mouth. I think once people have a good time, see the cause they’re supporting and had we go about doing it that you don’t have to sell this because it sells itself.”
The event features music on the golf course as well as food and drink stations. Nelson has said you can have fun going hole to hole even if you didn’t golf. It’s one of the reasons he doesn’t see the thing slowing down.
“Am I close to being done after nearly 20 years? Nope, not close. I’m not leaving the reigns of the Medbrook Children’s Charity or the Charity Golf Classic anytime soon … About the only thing we need is for God to give us some of the forecasted weekend sunshine to be in place from noon to after 5 p.m. on Monday,” said Nelson.
For those who would like to contribute to the Medbrook Children’s Charity, checks can be sent in the mail. Individuals need to send them to Medbrook Children’s Charity, PO Box 1021, Bridgeport, WV 26330.
Editor's Note: Top photo shows Dr. Kelly Nelson addressing the field prior to the start of last year's Classic. As the second photo shows, a few celebrities make an appearance as well as Sheriff Tiano, left, is a frequent visitor. Bottom photo from several years ago shows Nelson, yellow sweater, as he makes his annual contribution to the Harrison County Board of Education. Top two photos are by www.benqueenphotography.com.
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