ESTEVAN — The TS&M Woodlawn Golf Course was the site of laughter, camaraderie and heartfelt remembrance on Aug. 24 as 23 teams teed off for the annual Dustin Pratt Memorial Redneck Golf Tournament.
The tournament, organized by Dustin's family, continues to grow in both spirit and purpose, drawing golfers decked out in redneck attire to honour Dustin, who was 27 years old when he tragically passed away in 2016 after a fall while working on an oil rig.
Roxane Pratt, Dustin's mother and organizer of the event, shared that the tournament holds a special place in the hearts of many who participate, as golf was one of Dustin's favourite sports.
She noted the day went well, with 92 golfers on the greens.
"Everybody had a good time. The weather was a little hot, but we survived," Roxane said.
The tournament, which has evolved into an annual tradition, remains a mix of returning teams and a few fresh faces.
"There are a lot of the same teams, but every year there are a few new ones, which is nice," Roxane noted.
Many of the newcomers discover the event through social media posts highlighting the cause and the charitable donations made throughout the year, and join to support it.
In a new twist this year, the event started with a custom-made song, replacing the usual speech and toast.
"It's always hard to find someone who can give the speech because it's a tough day for everyone – his friends, his family," Roxane explained.
Her brother crafted the song using an app, blending memories and sentiments into lyrics.
"It was a beautiful song. Everybody really enjoyed it."
The tournament, now in its seventh edition but marking eight years since Dustin's passing, has consistently raised funds to support local sports teams and community initiatives. While this year's recipient is still undecided, past donations have gone to causes like the Jim Pattison Children's Hospital, St. Joseph's Hospital and various sports organizations, as well as local families that need help due to personal emergencies.
"We try to keep it local and focus on causes involving kids," Roxane said. "It's always hard to choose because there are so many deserving groups."
The community's support for the event has remained steadfast, with many sponsors and participants returning year after year.
"We've had teams and sponsors with us since the beginning," Roxane said, expressing gratitude for the enduring partnerships that have helped the event thrive. "It's overwhelming. I never dreamed when we started that it would still be going strong this many years later."
For many, the tournament is more than just a day on the course – it's a time to gather, share stories and remember Dustin.
"It's a good time for all of his friends to get together because a lot of them don't get together throughout the year. So, this is the one time they all come out and spend a day for Dustin," Roxane added.
