Community, Competition, and a Cause: CORE’s 2025 Golf Tournament
Golf may have been the game, but recovery was the reason. On May 13th, CORE’s Annual Golf Tournament welcomed players and many supporters to award winning Thousand Hills Golf Resort in support of a mission that transforms lives every day. The day was not only perfect but also a powerful reminder of what happens when fun meets purpose.
The event brought together community leaders, alumni, friends, and local businesses, all united by a shared belief in CORE’s mission: to help men and women break free from addiction and rebuild meaningful, productive lives. The atmosphere was full of energy, encouragement, and genuine fellowship.
Thousand Hills is a golf course like no other in the Ozarks. Standing in this scenic venue enveloped by nature made us forget that we were within walking distance of the Branson 76 Strip and Lake Taneycomo. The morning mist evoked images of the Old Course at St. Andrews. As the mist lifted just before tee time, golfers were greeted by sunny skies, perfectly kept fairways and greens, sparkling lakes and streams—and even a few fuzzy critters who emerged to watch the action.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to Kyler Patterson and the outstanding staff at Thousand Hills for making this breathtaking venue available and ensuring the tournament’s success. We are also especially grateful to our presenting sponsor, Ozarks Dynacom, which expertly promoted the event and helped us reach a wide audience throughout the Tri-Lakes region. Our sincere gratitude also goes out to Image Works, Inc., which effectively marketed the tournament online and in print.
One hundred golfers took to the greens in a four-person scramble, competing for cash prizes ranging from $400 to $1,200. The day’s contests included longest drive, longest putt, and closest-to-the-pin. Pinegar Chevrolet provided the hole-in-one prize on a very challenging Hole #10. While the mega prize went unclaimed, golfer Matt Dabb expertly dropped his drive within barely more than two feet of the pin!
This year’s winners:
Championship Flight
Blake Steele Team
Jake Bettlach Team
Capital Vacations Team
A Flight
Pink Jeep Tours Team
Wilson & Co. Barbershop Team
Jay Scribner Team
Individual Contests
Joe Allen – Closest to the Pin
Chris Boedefeld – Longest Drive
Bryan Taylor – Longest Putt
The prizes and contests added a competitive spark, while on-course refreshments and a cigar cart provided by Embers Cigar Lounge kept enthusiasm strong.
But beyond the scorecards and trophies, what made the day special was the shared sense of purpose. CORE CEO Cary McKee made an appearance to thank the participants and catch up with old friends. Several teams included CORE graduates—living proof of the impact that support, structure, and second chances can have. Between holes and over a gourmet lunch provided by Gather & Graze, stories were exchanged about recovery journeys, personal milestones, and the role CORE has played in restoring lives and families.
The tournament also raised critical funds to support CORE’s residential recovery program. We offer heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the event possible: our sponsors, golfers, Second Mile volunteers, and staff. Your support means everything to the men and women we serve.
If you missed this year’s tournament, don’t worry—planning for next year has already begun. We can’t wait to see you on the green on Tuesday, May 12, 2026!