Earl Sawyer began teaching his grandson Rob Sawyer the game of golf when Rob was only 6 years old.
The elder Sawyer enjoyed watching Rob compete and improve as a member of the golf teams at Southeast Middle School and Jesse Carson High School.
But it’s really special when they get to compete on the same team, as they have for the past five years at the annual Special Olympic Charity Golf Tournament hosted by Piedmont Correctional Institution.
This year’s tournament was held Friday at Corbin Hills Golf Club.
The Sawyers enjoy the food, fellowship with other players, the prizes organizers provide for the golfers and the opportunity to help the Special Olympic Organization.
Earl, who is almost 80 years old and struggles with multiple health issues, may not have the opportunity to continue being Rob’s teammate in future events, but Earl gives his grandson the competitive drive to be better at the game and to appreciate the opportunities to participate in the game of golf.
And it gives Earl a chance to be a proud grandfather.
“It is funny how spending time with my grandson has made me proud, a feeling words can’t explain,” Earl said. “We have enjoyed every minute, enjoying the time in giving to something we believe in and have built a wonderful relationship and memories for a lifetime.”