Macy Jo Invitational: Keeping her joy and generosity alive

In the heart of Hayfield, a young woman named Macy Jo Holtan made a lasting impression with her kindness, ambition and radiant spirit. 
Though her life was cut short in 2021, the joy she brought to family, friends and her community continues to inspire a celebration in her honor: the Macy Jo Invitational, a beloved golf tournament that reflects her love of the game and the people around her.
“Macy loved her family and friends deeply,” said her father, Justin Holtan. “She was ambitious, always striving toward her goals, and helped others reach theirs, too. She had a bright future — loved Chick-fil-A, FFA, hanging with friends and playing golf. And yes, she worked at Chick-fil-A, which she was proud of.”
To honor her, the Macy Jo Invitational was created as a three-day golf event that’s become much more than a tournament. Each year, it brings together golfers, friends, family, and supporters in tribute to Macy’s love of life and the game she adored.
Held at the Oaks Golf Course, the invitational is packed with personality. Friday night features a build-your-own pizza bar, Macy’s favorite, with sizzling pies cooked in outdoor brick oven-style stations. Saturday concludes with a formal Champions Dinner, where winners receive their green jackets.
The Macy Jo Foundation awards $500 scholarships to graduating seniors who shine academically and in athletics or FFA.
“We always give four scholarships,” Holtan said, “but we’ve given as many as eight.”
They’ve also donated to Dodge County’s FFA chapters, including a recent $1,000 gift to Triton FFA chosen through a drawing, just the way Macy liked it.
One of the most touching tributes is the bridge installed at the Oaks Golf Course in Macy’s honor.
“It’s a beautiful reminder of her,” Holtan said.
The foundation also supports youth golf, hoping more kids will discover what Macy did: confidence, joy and connection. She qualified for the Class A state golf tournament as an eighth grader. Her passion started early and never faded.
“The outpouring of love after Macy passed was incredible,” Holtan said. “We couldn’t have gotten through that time without our family and friends — and their support continues. From celebrating her 18th birthday and graduation to backing the invitational year after year.”
Friends and players have shown their devotion with surprises like custom pin flags, MJ logos painted on tee boxes and heartfelt donations.
“She’d probably think it’s over the top,” Holtan said, laughing. “But I know she’d be proud.”
Donations to support the foundation’s mission can be mailed to: The Macy Jo Foundation, 73921 168th Ave., Hayfield, MN 55940
Title sponsorships are $250 and flight sponsorships are $150. The Holtan family thanks the Oaks Country Club and all supporters for helping keep Macy’s memory alive.
“Macy would want us to have fun,” Holtan said. “That’s what this is all about, honoring her by playing the game she loved.”