HISTORY OF THE TOURNAMENT
In 1972, Bob Klas Sr. decided to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. As the father of two children with special needs, he knew firsthand the struggles facing children with disabilities and their families. And in turn, he knew the uphill financial battle facing the non-profit agencies that provided essential support to individuals and families.
So with his friend and co-worker Pat Cody Sr, Klas created the Tapemark Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament. The first tournament in 1972 raised $9,000, and Minnesota golf history would never be the same. Since the beginning, the Pro-Am has raised and donated more than $7.5 million to non-profits serving people with developmental and learning disabilities and their families, changing the lives of thousands of Minnesotans. It has become one of the longest-running and most successful events of its kind in the country! The biggest legends in Minnesota golf have all won Tapemark professional titles, including Tom Lehman, Don Berry, and Dave Tentis.
The golf tournament relies on the generous financial support of corporate and individual sponsors, donors, and the hard work of many volunteers.