Boswell Tournament, Banquet Honor Blind Veterans

One of Birmingham's most enduring charitable traditions will return June 4-5 as supporters gather for the 2026 Charley Boswell Memorial "Rewind for the Blind" Golf Tournament and Country Western Banquet, two events dedicated to honoring blind veterans and supporting programs that help them regain independence.

The golf tournament will be held Thursday, June 4, at Highland Park Golf Course, 3300 Highland Avenue South in Birmingham. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with tee time scheduled for 8:30 a.m. The event is hosted by Rewind for the Blind Veterans and continues a legacy associated with one of Alabama's most remarkable sports figures.

Charley Boswell was a Birmingham native, World War II veteran, and one of the most accomplished blind golfers in history. Boswell lost his sight in combat while rescuing a wounded fellow soldier from a burning tank during World War II. During his rehabilitation, he learned to play golf and went on to win 16 national blind golf championships and 11 international titles. His achievements helped establish him as one of the most recognized blind athletes in the world.

Boswell's friendship with entertainer and avid golfer Bob Hope brought national attention to the tournament over the years. Hope frequently served as Honorary Chairman of Boswell's charity golf events and helped raise funds for causes benefiting blind individuals and veterans.

Organizers say the event remains focused on the same mission that inspired Boswell's life story.

The tournament will feature team and individual competition, with cash prizes awarded to the top three teams. First place will receive $400, second place $300, and third place $200. Team registration is $600 and includes four players, with three playing golfers paired with one blind veteran participant at no cost. Individual registration is $250 and includes greens fees, cart, breakfast, lunch, beverages, and tournament activities.

The event also offers numerous sponsorship opportunities for businesses and community organizations. Sponsorship levels range from a $150 hole sponsorship to a $5,000 Annual Honorary Dinner Sponsorship. Other options include the Awards Reception Lunch Sponsorship ($2,000), Breakfast Meal Sponsorship ($1,000), Platinum Sponsorship ($2,500), Silver Sponsorship ($1,000), Beverage Cart Sponsorship ($350), Swag Bag Sponsorship ($500), and Friends of Rewind for the Blind sponsorships beginning at $250.

Tournament organizers highlighted the continuing leadership of longtime supporter Myra Harper, whose efforts have helped sustain the event for decades.

"At ninety years young, Ms. Myra continues to delight us all with her outstanding barbecue and pies, but her dedication goes far beyond the kitchen. She remains the heart, soul and the driving force behind this cherished tournament and dinner, ensuring that every blind Veteran who travels from across the Southeast to join us feels welcomed, honored, and celebrated. Her dedication is a testament to everything this tournament stands for."

The celebration continues Friday, June 5, with the annual Country Western Banquet at Reflections at the Cedars Event Center, 301 Green Springs Avenue South in Birmingham. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner served at 6 p.m. The evening will feature live music from The Rock Candy Band, door prizes, and fellowship among veterans, supporters, and community leaders. Proceeds from the banquet benefit Rewind for the Blind Veterans of the Southeast.

Organizers encourage supporters to enter a golf team, become a sponsor, attend the banquet, or help spread the word about the event.

"Charley Boswell gave everything - and then came back and gave more. Let us honor that legacy together."

Registration and sponsorship information is available through Rewind for the Blind Veterans at https://rewindfortheblind.org.