ALEXANDRIA, Minn. — Young Life is inviting the community to grab their clubs and be part of the first-ever “Fore the Kids Golf Event” on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the new Little Darling Par 3 Course.
The event is designed to be a relaxed, fun-first golf experience for anyone — seasoned golfers, casual players, coworkers, neighbors and families alike. Tee times will be available throughout the day, allowing participants to play when it works for their schedule and enjoy a laid-back day on one of Minnesota’s newest golf destinations.
The event supports Young Life camperships, helping remove financial barriers so more local students can attend Young Life camp.
“We hear kids every year describe camp as the ‘best week of their lives,’” said Dan Hartsoch, area director for Alexandria Area Young Life. “Fore the Kids is really about bringing people together for a fun day while helping make those experiences possible for more students in our community.”
Featured in Golf Digest as a top new short course for 2026, the Little Darling Par 3 Course was intentionally designed to be welcoming and accessible for golfers of all ages and skill levels.
“We wanted Little Darling to be the kind of course where anyone feels comfortable playing,” said Kyle Lee, head golf professional at Little Darling Par 3 Course. “This event fits that vision perfectly — it’s approachable, community-focused, and centered around simply enjoying the day together.”
Shown, left to right, are student leader Gavin, along with Loren, Andrew, Davyeon, Levi and Foster.
Contributed photo
The Fore the Kids Golf Event will include:
9-hole Par 3 scramble. Flexible tee times throughout the day. Putting contest.Closest-to-the-pin and longest putt contests. $10,000 hole-in-one challenge. Brat buffet and community gathering atmosphere.
For local student, Tegan, who attended Young Life camp last summer, the impact goes far beyond golf.
“Camp gave me a chance to step away from everything and just be myself,” Tegan said. “I met people who genuinely cared about me, and it changed my faith and life. It’s really cool knowing this golf event helps other kids have that same experience.”
Young Life is a nonprofit organization committed to building relationships with middle school, high school, and college students through mentorship, community and shared experiences. Local Young Life leaders work year-round to create places where kids feel known, valued and connected.
Registration is now open. Golfers are encouraged to register early for preferred tee times.
For more information or to register, visit:
Golf Genius Registration Page
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Shown, left to right, are Carly, student leader Grett, and Briana.
Contributed photo
By
Echo Press staff report
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