Jacksonville PGA Tournaments
by Erin Grier
Jacksonville, Florida is home to two big PGA golf tournaments: The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass and The Constellations Furyk and Freinds. Each tournament is loaded with a week full of fun, music, and of course the respect of the lovely competitive game of golf.
The Players Championship or known as The Players, is an annual golf tournament on the PGA Tour. it began in 1974. The Players Championship at one point offered the highest purse of any tournament in golf. The field usually includes the top 50 players in the world but unlike the major championships, it is owned by the PGA Tour and not considered an official event on other tours.
It is sometimes referred to as the most prestigious tournament in golf. This is because of the characteristics it shares with the majors, such as the high class field and its large purse. It also has a renowned host course in Ponte Vedra (played at TPC Sawgrass at which the tournament has been played since 1982. It is home of the iconic par-3 No. 17 “Island Green”) which players either hit or miss it in the water.
As of 2023, the victor receives over $4 million, the winner’s share (18%) of the largest purse in golf ($25 million), and receives 80 points towards his world ranking. The winner also receives a five-year exemption on the PGA Tour a three-year invitation to The Masters amongst other tournaments.
The other big golf tournament here in Jacksonville is Jim Furyk’s Constellation and Friends. This event is usually held in the fall. It is often played at the Timuquana country club. Constellation has a longstanding relationship with Jim Furyk, dating back to 1999. Jim’s rise to be one of the top players and notoriety in the world has made big names participate in the event such as Phil Mickelson, Steve Stricker, and Miguel Jiminez . It’s not as popular as The Players but it is a great tournament to go to experience professional golf.
So next time you’re in Jax, make sure to stop. by and check these tournaments that are happening in our backyard.
-Erin Grier
