BEDFORD — The 2025 Claude Akins Memorial Golf Classic, held Labor Day weekend at Bedford’s historic Otis Park Golf Course, drew a record-breaking 112 teams with 672 players total, making it the largest in the tournament’s history. The total numbers have come in, and the event raised over $66,000, setting yet another new record.
The annual event, hosted by the Bedford Recreation Foundation, Inc., once again proved to be one of the area’s most anticipated community fundraisers. Funds from the Claude Akins Memorial Golf Classic support the Bedford Recreation Foundation Scholarship, the Akins Scholarship for Bedford North Lawrence High School graduates, and ongoing recreation and development projects across the city.
The tournament’s success would not have been possible without the tremendous generosity of sponsors, participants, and volunteers. The Bedford Recreation Foundation Board expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed their time and resources, noting that the tournament’s continued growth helps make major improvements to Otis Park and other city parks possible.
A variety of local and regional businesses sponsored the event, helping ensure that every participant enjoyed a first-class experience across both days of play. Foundation President Tom Elliott and Golf Chairman Joseph S. Elliott thanked the community. “On behalf of the board, we want to thank you for your continued support and acknowledge the role all of you have played in helping us make this tournament a huge success — enabling us to continue to provide substantial contributions to Otis Park and the community.”
The Claude Akins Memorial Golf Classic remains not only a tribute to Bedford’s legendary native and Hollywood icon but also a shining example of community spirit, teamwork, and generosity that continues to strengthen the city year after year.
