OLEAN — For Doug Wright, golf isn’t just a pastime — it’s a lifelong passion. And on Monday, June 9, the 72-year-old former Olean native and 1971 Olean High School graduate, now living in Denver, Colorado, celebrated a remarkable personal milestone by walking and playing 72 holes of golf in a single day — a feat he first accomplished 60 years ago as a determined 12-year-old.

Wright, who began playing golf at age 10 at the local Birch Run 9-hole course in Allegany, has a long history with the sport. “During those early years I’d play almost every day during the summer,” Wright recalls. “I’d ride my bike three miles from our home in Olean to the course and back, clubs strapped to the handlebars.” That dedication paid off in 1964 when, at just 12 years old, he biked to the course one summer morning and completed eight rounds — 72 holes — on foot. Ten years ago, at age 62, Wright decided to revisit the challenge, again playing 72 holes at Birch Run.

A decade later, Wright has repeated the feat yet again — matching his youthful endurance at age 72. This time, however, he added a philanthropic twist, raising money for charity during his marathon golf day. This year’s 72-hole day raised over $1,200 for two causes close to his heart — the Olean Food Pantry, where his sister Pam Groth volunteers. And Food For Thought, a Denver-based nonprofit that provides food for local schoolchildren.

Wright’s enduring love of the game and his commitment to giving back show that age is no barrier to passion — or compassion. “I guess I’m just a little bit crazy about golf,” Wright laughs. “But if a long day on the course can help people in need, that’s what makes it worth every step. And thanks to Bob Ketchner and his Birch Run staff for helping me achieve my goal.”