New York, United States: The United States Golf Association (USGA) has announced the introduction of the Celebration of Champions event, a four-hole public exhibition honouring the winners of all 2017 USGA championships … and celebrating their distinguished achievements in the game of golf.
The exhibition will pair 2017 champions as two-player mixed teams, and will be held on Tuesday, June 12, during the week of the 118th US Open Championship at iconic Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York.
“Our championships are open to all players who have the dream and desire to compete at the highest level,” said Mike Davis, CEO of the USGA. “We believe hosting the inaugural Celebration of Champions – with our long-time partner Rolex – at the 118th US Open is a fitting way to celebrate each champion’s incredible achievement and acknowledge their place in golf history.”
Eight-time USGA champion Jack Nicklaus will help launch the inaugural festivities in what will become an annual tradition.
“I’ve always loved USGA championships,” said Nicklaus, who won USGA championships in five different decades. “Since I was a junior, they have always been the ultimate examinations of a golfer. I always felt that the USGA did the best job of preparing a golf course that will completely test you and every part of your game. And for me personally, to be able to compete for a championship of the country I live in made a victory that much more meaningful.
“I am honoured to be part of the Celebration of Champions and the USGA’s enduring commitment to celebrate the game and its legacy. The US Open is widely regarded as golf’s ultimate test, making it the ideal setting for an event designed to applaud each 2017 USGA champion.”
FS1 will broadcast the foursomes (alternate-shot) exhibition, which will feature amateurs and professionals from multiple generations and all walks of life playing holes 10-13. The shotgun start event will be open to all fans attending Tuesday’s US Open practice round.
The event’s participants include: Frankie Capan (US Amateur Four-Ball champion), Alice Chen (US Women’s Amateur Four-Ball champion), Kelsey Chugg (US Women’s Mid-Amateur champion), Noah Goodwin (US Junior Amateur champion), Sean Knapp (US Senior Amateur champion), Judith Kyrinis (US Senior Women’s Amateur champion), Matt Parziale (US Mid-Amateur champion), Kenny Perry (US Senior Open champion), Doc Redman (US Amateur champion), Sophia Schubert (US Women’s Amateur champion), Taylor Totland (US Women’s Amateur Four-Ball champion) and Ben Wong (US Amateur Four-Ball champion).
Prior to the defence of his title, 2017 US Open champion Brooks Koepka will be on-site to welcome all participants.
The Celebration of Champions was officially unveiled at a New York City launch event for the 2018 US Open Trophy Tour, presented by Lexus.