News Summary
Elgin, South Carolina, is set to host the Colonial Life Charity Classic, a significant event on the Korn Ferry Tour calendar from May 11-17, 2026. This five-year agreement with Colonial Life as the title sponsor aims to boost the local economy by an estimated $7-8 million annually. The tournament will not only highlight professional golf but also inspire young golfers and support charitable endeavors, with proceeds benefiting the United Way of the Midlands. Exciting upgrades at Woodcreek Golf Club contribute to a vibrant atmosphere for attendees.
Elgin, South Carolina Welcomes the Colonial Life Charity Classic!
Big news for golf fans and the local community in Elgin, South Carolina! The Korn Ferry Tour is excited to announce that they will be hosting the second-ever Colonial Life Charity Classic at the stunning Woodcreek Golf Club from May 11-17, 2026. That’s right—mark your calendars because this event is shaping up to be a highlight of the golfing calendar!
A Five-Year Agreement in the Works
In fantastic news, this tournament comes with a solid five-year agreement, making it a cornerstone for the region’s sporting scene. And it’s even better with Colonial Life stepping in as the title sponsor, showcasing their commitment to the community. This partnership is sure to bring some excitement and high-level competition to Elgin, which is just a short 20 miles east of Columbia, South Carolina.
Economic Boost for the Community
While the sport itself is thrilling, the benefits don’t stop with golf swings and putts. Local leaders, including Mayor Daniel Rickenmann of Columbia, believe that this tournament could pump a whopping seven to eight million dollars into the economy each year! That’s a significant boost that could help local businesses thrive, from restaurants to hotels.
For the Love of the Game
One of the best parts about this event is how it aims to inspire and nurture future golf stars. Junior golfers will have an amazing opportunity to meet and interact with professional players, possibly sparking dreams and aspirations for young enthusiasts. Imagine the future champions who could come out of this tournament—it’s all about growth and development for everyone involved!
Charitable Endeavors
Giving back is central to this event, with proceeds going to a great cause, the United Way of the Midlands. When you combine a love for golf with a commitment to community betterment, you know it’s going to be a success on multiple fronts.
The Korn Ferry Tour and Its Legacy
For those unfamiliar, the Korn Ferry Tour has been around since 1990, serving as a critical developmental league for the prestigious PGA Tour. In fact, last year, 30 players moved up to the PGA Tour from the Korn Ferry Tour! With a rich pool of notable alumni, including names like Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, and Tony Finau, it’s no wonder that about 82% of current PGA Tour members have spent time honing their skills here.
Two Events, One Community
The Colonial Life Charity Classic is set to join the ranks of another Korn Ferry event in South Carolina—the BMW Charity Pro-Am in Greer. Plus, this state doesn’t shy away from golf, hosting two PGA Tour events as well, including the RBC Heritage on Hilton Head Island and the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic.
Creating a Festival Atmosphere
Expect more than just golf at the Colonial Life Charity Classic! Gene Hallman, CEO of Eventus, aims to create a festive atmosphere filled with entertainment options like concerts and celebrity pro-ams. Attendees can enjoy a lively social scene while cheering on their favorite players, making it a memorable experience for everyone.
Exciting Changes at Woodcreek Golf Club
Woodcreek Golf Club, designed by the legendary Tom Fazio and established in 1997, has undergone significant upgrades worth over $5 million by current owner Harold Pickrel. To add to the experience, he’s looking to invest an additional $2 million to build an amphitheater near the clubhouse, ensuring that attendees have a fantastic time both on and off the course.
Looking Ahead
It’s notable that Hallman sparked this idea back in January 2025 by reaching out to local officials, and by April, everything was set in motion for what promises to be an incredible event. The Colonial Life Charity Classic will take the place of an existing Korn Ferry Tour event, illustrating how quickly things have progressed.
Get ready, Elgin! The countdown to the Colonial Life Charity Classic is officially on, and we can’t wait to see how it unfolds in May 2026!
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