While only a handful of golfers at the inaugural Beck’s Soybean Classic hosted by the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA) had to dodge rogue golf balls, everyone had a stroke of luck and dodged the rain.  

“It was a great day,” said MSGA President Bob Worth, who visited with participants throughout the day. “Working alongside Beck’s to pull off this event was phenomenal – they gave 120 percent.” 

Because MSGA represents and advocates for soybean growers across the entire state of Minnesota, the Beck’s Soybean Classic held in Perham was the perfect opportunity to involve growers and industry representatives from the northern region of Minnesota in MSGA’s mission. 

“We always thought that it’d be great to have something closer to the northern folks,” said Worth, who was joined by several directors and Executive Director Joe Smentek. “That’s why we’ve always tried to have one meeting in the northern part of the state each year. I’m glad that we got it done this year because it’s something that I’ve always wanted.” 

Because Minnesota soybean checkoff dollars cannot be used for advocating in St. Paul and Washington, D.C., MSGA depends on membership dollars and fundraisers like the Beck’s Soybean Classic to support its legislative activities. 

“Our golf tournament fundraisers give us the funding to do the policy work that we need to do on behalf of Minnesota soybean growers,” Worth said. “With fundraising dollars, we are able to send our farmers to St. Paul and Washington, D.C. and educate our politicians on how their policies affect growers.” 

After the golf tournament wrapped up, players gathered for a dinner reception where results were awarded and Beck’s held its chip off for the Traeger grill grand prize. SB&B Foods’ team went home with the first-place team award with a score of 18 under par. As the sun set on an excellent day of golfing, MSGA’s and Beck’s partnership proved to be a success with a bright future. 

“The first-ever Beck’s Soybean Classic was a true success,” said Aaron Nordly, Beck’s Area Team Leader. “Our experience was truly exceptional, and we are immensely grateful for the opportunity to collaborate closely with such a dedicated association. Our partnership with MSGA has allowed us to contribute meaningfully to farmers, reinforcing our commitment to helping farmers succeed, together.” 

Stayed tuned for details on the 2025 Beck’s Soybean Classic. Up next, MSGA has its sights set on the annual Biodiesel Open on Aug. 19 at the Crow River Golf Club in Hutchinson. Click here to register.