Good weather, good food, good people and a good cause. Such was the theme of the 2013 Ute Mountain Oil Classic Golf Tournament, held at Conquistador Golf Course on Aug. 3. A truly wonderful event on many levels, this year’s rendition of the Ute Mountain Oil Classic will be remembered for years to come.
Throughout the Classic, a mild sun traversed the partly cloudy sky over the beautifully prepared Conquistador Golf Course. Watching competitors meander down fairways and across greens, it became obvious that everyone was enjoying both the weather and the course.
“This is a great tournament,” said Cortez resident Loren Workman. “Everyone has a good time. The course is in great shape. For what this course has and the equipment that is available, the grounds crew — they are miracle workers.”
Complementing the outstanding weather and the beautiful course was a spread of food worthy of royalty. Pork chops, barbecued ribs, hot dogs and hamburgers greeted competitors as they crossed the course, leaving everyone full and happy.
“Playing in the tournament is one of the most fun things I have done,” said Sierra Oil Field’s Services safety manager Jesus Mendoza. “The organizers do a great job of putting his on and everyone out here is treated right. The food and drinks are awesome and we never leave hungry.”
While the course, the food and the drink make the Ute Mountain Oil Classic enjoyable, it is the competitors make the event truly special. Throughout the tournament, players consistently demonstrated sportsmanship while obviously enjoying one another’s company.
“The camaraderie out here is great,” explained Workman. “Everyone really enjoys one another. The oil field guys always have a great time. The players help make this event what it is.”
Among the most successful players on the day were Steve Keetch, Jeff Keetch, Arlene Curtis and Chrissy Hayes. Showcasing an impressive array of shots, the group finished first overall.
Finishing second in the tournament was a group comprised of Dean Cunningham, Stephen Gray, Tim Hobbs and Crew Robertson. A group comprised of Randy Curtis, KC Ware, Roudy Thompson and Rodney Branson rounded out the top three.
Along with providing a top-notch experience for all its golfers, the Ute Mountain Oil Classic contributed money to a good cause. The night before the tournament, Ute Mountain Oil Classic organizers presented a $10,000 check to the Escalante Club.
“A portion of the money that is donated by the [Ute Mountain Oil Classic] will be given to the Shriner’s Hospital,” explained Escalante Club president Nate Seeley. “Money is given to families with sick kids and helps cover costs associated with travel and lodging.”
“This is a great cause,” added tournament organizer Randy Curtis. “Everybody on the tournament committee wants to help out and help the kids. I’m thankful that we are able to put this tournament on.”
At the end of the day, there is nothing better than a day spent golfing, eating and socializing with great people and supporting something great. There is nothing better than participating in the Ute Mountain Oil Classic.