It is never a surprise to me when a corporate or charity golf tournament has a great turnout. I know I always jump at the chance to spend quality time out on the links instead of firmly ensconced behind my desk.

People hear the word ‘tournament’ and automatically think cut-throat competition, but that certainly isn’t the case with outings like Commerce Chenango’s Summer Golf Event, which was held on June 19 at the Bluestone Golf Course in Oxford. Sure, you always have a few serious golfers in the mix, but thanks to “best ball” formats like Captain and Crew (and don’t forget about those mulligans) you don’t actually have to be any good to enjoy the festivities. They take the focus off the final score, and let everyone concentrate on why they are really there: to play hooky from work for a good cause and a bit of networking.

Of course, it isn’t all fun and games for everyone. Putting together one of these events is a lot of work for both the golf course and the tournament organizers. I witnessed just how much work it all is when I tagged along with Bluestone’s Jason Bradley and his sister Cara during the Chamber tournament.