WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WSAW) – 92 players came out to Bullseye Golf Club in Wisconsin Rapids this weekend for the 66th Mark Zelich Golf Classic, competing across men’s, women’s and seniors divisions to keep the legacy of a broadcast legend alive.
Zelich was a longtime sports anchor and news director at Channel 7, and served as the radio voice of Badger Football from 1959 to 1970 on the Wisconsin Radio Network. ‘Keep the honor and the memory’
Tournament Committee Chairperson Nic Babl said he took over the event after Zelich with a clear goal.
“Just always knew it was the most prestigious tournament out here and wanted to keep it going after he had passed away and everything,” Babl said. “Wanted to just take it over and do what we could to keep the honor and the memory and the respect for him going.”
Familiar faces on top
Newcomers and returning players competed, but the mainstays came out on top. Russell Dettmering won the men’s division for the second consecutive year. Brooke Ewert won her third straight.
“Too bad Mark couldn’t be here, you know, obviously, his passing a few years ago,” Dettmering said. “But I think I can speak for everyone here, we play for him, him only.”
Camaraderie at the core
Babl said the competition is secondary to the connections the event fosters — something he described as central to what Zelich valued.
“It’s about the camaraderie of getting together and enjoying each other’s company,” Babl said. “That is really what it comes down to. The golf is just a way to go out and have fun and see what happens.”
Only two golfers competed in the Ladies’ Division this year. Babl said organizers hope more women will participate in 2027.
What’s next
Next year’s tournament is already scheduled at Bass Lake Golf Club in Deerbrook before the event moves to Wausau for three consecutive years.
“We’re just really happy to keep it going and keep his memory alive and well and bring out the best golfers in central Wisconsin,” Babl said.
Click here to download the WSAW news app or WSAW First Alert weather app.
Click here to submit a news tip or story idea.
Copyright 2026 WSAW. All rights reserved.