Taft College Athletics Celebrates Successful 2025 Al Baldock Memorial Golf Classic, Looks Ahead to 2026
The spirit of community, remembrance, and friendly competition came together once again at the 2025 Al Baldock Memorial Golf Classic, hosted in support of Taft College Athletics. Golfers, sponsors, and friends of the college turned out to honor the legacy of longtime coach and mentor Al Baldock while raising funds to support Cougar athletics and student success. From the first tee shot to the last putt, the day reflected exactly what this event has become known for: great golf, great company, and a great cause.
On the course, the competition was intense but good-natured. The team of HORACE/FINDLEY claimed 1st place honors, followed by WALTERS in 2nd, GRYSKO in 3rd, and DAVIS rounding out the leaderboard in 4th place. Individual highlights added to the excitement throughout the round. Jake Haddad powered his way to the Longest Drive (Men) and also stuck one close on hole 17 for Closest to the Hole. Brandi Borjon earned Longest Drive (Women), showcasing impressive distance off the tee. Precision was the theme for the closest-to-the-pin contests, with Del Van Sickel winning on hole 2, Taylor Jones on hole 6, and Ross Kelly on hole 13.
Behind all those swings and scorecards was a generous group of sponsors who made the tournament possible. Leading the way was Main Sponsor Jose Vargas of AP Architects. The 2025 Tournament Sponsor Board also included John Neumann; Dr. Sheri Horn Bunk; Max Goosen; Nik Boone; Brianne Lancaster; Myron Smith; Dr. Loretta Lipscomb; Jeoff Feghali; Gary Grillette; Sunny Kapoor; Julie Franks; Dr. Hamilton; Robbie Bean and Angie Milner; Melissa Veach; and Kyle Webster (Dad). Their support—along with 32 tee signs purchased by community partners—helped ensure the event remained a meaningful fundraiser as well as a community tradition.
Final figures for last year was over $36,000. Organizers noted that last year's tournament raised more than previous events and set a strong benchmark for the future. The continued growth of the Al Baldock Memorial Golf Classic helps Taft College invest in its student-athletes, facilities, and programs, keeping Cougar athletics competitive and providing opportunities that extend far beyond the playing field. Every sponsorship, tee sign, prize donation, and registration fee plays a role in that ongoing impact.
Planning is already underway for the next chapter of this tradition. The next Al Baldock Memorial Golf Classic is scheduled for April 17, 2026, at Buena Vista Golf Course. Registration is now open for teams, sponsorships, tee signs, and prize donations. Those interested in participating or supporting the event can contact Lori Murphy at 661-761-7829 or via email at lmurphy@taftcollege.edu. Additional information is available at www.athletics.taftcollege.edu.
Taft College extends a heartfelt thank you to every golfer, sponsor, donor, and volunteer who helped make the 2025 tournament a success. Whether you hit it long, hit it close, or simply came out to support, you were part of something bigger than a day on the course. Organizers are already looking forward to welcoming everyone back in 2026 to continue honoring Al Baldock's legacy and strengthening opportunities for Cougar student-athletes.