Teeing up for community good: Claude Akins Memorial Golf Classic returns to Otis Park this weekend

BEDFORD — The links at Otis Park Golf Course are set to come alive this weekend as the Bedford Recreation Foundation hosts the annual Claude Akins Memorial Golf Classic, bringing together hundreds of golfers for the community’s premier sporting fundraiser.

The popular six-person scramble tournament spans four rounds across Saturday and Sunday, featuring morning and afternoon tee times. Local teams and area businesses will turn out in full force for the event, which features signature contests like the “Try for Dye,” “Roll 4 Red,” and “Par 3 Mulligan” alongside more than $30,000 in prizes.

Named in honor of Bedford native and legendary Hollywood character actor Claude Akins, the tournament serves as the primary engine for the Bedford Recreation Foundation. Over its decades-long history, the non-profit event has raised over $1.1 million, funneling more than $825,000 back into local initiatives.

Proceeds directly benefit park improvements at Otis Park, local youth programs including the Boys & Girls Club of Lawrence County and Special Olympics, and scholarship funds for Bedford North Lawrence High School graduates. Organized by board president Tom Elliott and tournament chair Joey Elliott alongside a dedicated local committee, the community staple continues to draw capacity fields year after year.

Bedford Recreation Foundation Board Members: