The Richard King III CHRISTUS Spohn Grand Classic has become one of the most notable fundraisers of the year across South Texas with roots grounded solely in philanthropy and a love for the game of golf.

CHRISTUS Spohn Health System’s charitable golf tournament has supported the healing mission of the hospital system for more than two decades. The philanthropic event began in 1991 when the late Vernon Medlin, M.D., a longtime radiologist and radiation oncologist with CHRISTUS Spohn, teamed with Corpus Christi Country Club Head Golf Professional Doug DeSive to raise money for the hospital system through his favorite pastime.

The 2002 Grand Classic was held in memory of the late F.F. Rogers M.D., a general surgeon who practiced with CHRISTUS Spohn. Dr. Rogers had made such an impression on one of his patients, Richard King III, that King was inspired to chair the event and host it in tribute of Rogers. As a member of the CHRISTUS Spohn Foundation’s Board of Directors, King championed the tournament for several years. When King passed away, it seemed natural to name the tournament in his honor.

PGA Tour and Champions Tour veteran Phil Blackmar, a close friend of the late Vernon Medlin, M.D. annually attends the Grand Classic, offering his expertise through a golf clinic.

This year’s event — scheduled for October 19 at the Corpus Christi Country Club — is an 18-hole, four-player team format. Proceeds will benefit the new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at CHRISTUS Spohn Corpus Christi-South.

For sponsorships and more information, contact Courtney Cook McLain with the CHRISTUS Spohn Foundation at 361-881-3611 or courtney.mclain@christushealth.org.

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Posted on October 5, 2015