Fantastic Father and Son Golf Tournaments
Father and Son Golf Tournaments
Golf has always been a game that transcends generations, offering a unique platform for bonding and camaraderie. The rich history of the sport is filled with iconic father-son duos, like Old Tom Morris and Young Tom Morris, who dominated the early Open Championships, and Jack Nicklaus and Gary Nicklaus, who carried the torch in later years. Today, father and son golf tournaments continue this legacy, providing a special opportunity to strengthen familial bonds while enjoying a shared passion. These tournaments cater to a wide range of skill levels and ages, with various formats and locations to choose from. Whether you're seasoned veterans or just starting out, there's a father and son tournament out there waiting to create lasting memories on and off the course.
Father and Son Golf Tournaments in the United States
The United States boasts a diverse landscape of father and son golf tournaments, each with its own distinct character and appeal. Here are a few notable examples:
Ritz Carlton Golf Course
PNC Championship: This prestigious tournament, formerly known as the Father/Son Challenge, pairs PGA Tour and Champions Tour professionals with their sons (or other family members). Held annually in December at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida, the PNC Championship offers a chance to witness some of golf's most celebrated figures compete in a relaxed, family-oriented setting. The tournament is a 36-hole scramble format, where each player hits a tee shot, and the team selects the better of the two to play from that spot. This format continues throughout the round. To be eligible, the professional golfer must have won a major championship or The Players Championship. The winners are awarded the Willie Park Trophy, named after the father and son British Open champions Willie Park Sr. and Willie Park Jr.
Father & Son Team Classic: Hosted by Family Golf Week, this tournament takes place in "The Seaside Golf Capital of the World" and is recognized as the "World's Largest" father and son golf event. Drawing over 800 players from 40 states and numerous countries, the Father & Son Team Classic provides a competitive yet social environment for fathers and sons of all skill levels. The tournament format involves 54 holes of competition, with various divisions and flights based on age and handicap. For first-time participants, the cost is $1,175 per team, while returning teams enjoy a discounted rate of $950. The entry fee includes a welcome gift bag valued at over $500 per team, which includes shirts, hats, golf balls, a $50 gift card, and more. Participants also receive three rounds of golf with lunch included and access to banquets after play with food and drinks.
AmateurGolf.com Two Man Links and Father & Son: AmateurGolf.com organizes several Two Man Links championships throughout the year, featuring events with a dedicated Father & Son division. These tournaments are typically held at world-class golf resorts such as Bandon Dunes, Sand Valley, Pebble Beach, and Streamsong. It's important to note that these events are open to any two-person team, not just fathers and sons. Mothers, daughters, and all other pairings are welcome, fostering an inclusive and diverse atmosphere. The format is a best-ball championship, with prizes awarded for gross and net scores within the Father & Son division, as well as for overall championship titles.
Father and Son Golf Tournaments in Scotland
While the United States boasts many Father and Son golf tournaments , Scotland offers a few as well. The "Home of Golf" presents a unique opportunity for fathers and sons to bond over a shared passion for the sport in a historic and picturesque setting. This article explores some of the top Father and Son golf tournaments in Scotland, delving into their formats, costs, and eligibility requirements.
Father and Son Tournament at St Andrews
This tournament, held in honor of Old Tom Morris and his son, Tommy, at the "Home of Golf," is a highly sought-after event. With limited availability for only 24 teams, it offers a truly exclusive experience. This tournament offers a unique opportunity to compete at the historic home of golf while honoring the legacy of one of golf's most famous father-son duos.
Format: The tournament is a 72-hole, two-man team competition using a better ball stableford format. The event spans five days and includes rounds at the New Course, the Championship Course at Carnoustie, Kingsbarns Golf Links, and the Old Course.
Cost: The cost for golfers includes five nights at the 5-star Old Course Hotel, four competition rounds, breakfast, lunch, a welcome drinks reception, a "Taste of Scotland" evening, a Scottish beverage tasting evening, and a farewell Grand Scottish Gala Banquet. Prices vary depending on room choice and whether the room is shared or for sole use, ranging from £6,965 to £16,090.
Eligibility: The minimum age of entry is 18 years, and the handicap limit is 24. Father/son-in-law teams are also eligible.
World Invitational Father & Son Tournament at Waterville
Held in the scenic landscape of Waterville, County Kerry, Ireland, this tournament offers a unique blend of world-class golf and Irish hospitality. Beyond the golf, participants can enjoy the renowned Irish hospitality, creating a memorable experience both on and off the course.
Format: The tournament format includes a practice round followed by three competition rounds. The competition rounds consist of Four-Ball Stableford, Scotch Foursomes Stableford, and another Four-Ball Stableford.
Cost: The cost includes practice and tournament rounds at Waterville Golf Links, 24-hour chauffeur service, four nights of accommodation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, a tournament gift pack, and evening entertainment.
Eligibility: This tournament is open to fathers and sons.
Father/Daughter Options
Many Father and Son golf tournaments also offer Father/Daughter options, recognizing the growing interest in golf among women. Here are a few examples:
Mass Golf Father Daughter Championship: This tournament features a Modified Scotch format where both golfers hit a tee shot and select which drive they want to use. They then play alternate shots into the hole.
FSGA Parent-Child Championship: This tournament has a broader eligibility, allowing grandparents, step-parents, and grandchildren to participate.
PGA Family Golf Championship: This championship provides families with a chance to compete together, offering both amateur and professional titles.
Conclusion
Scotland, with its legendary golf courses, provides a fantastic setting for Father and Son golf tournaments. These events offer a valuable opportunity to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. The following table summarizes the key aspects of each tournament:
Father and Son Tournament, St Andrews, Scotland,72-hole better ball stableford, £6,965 - £16,090, Fathers and sons (minimum age 18, handicap limit 24)
World Invitational Father & Son Tournament, Waterville, County Kerry Ireland, Four-Ball Stableford, Scotch Foursomes, Stableford, VariesFathers and sons.
Adult-Junior Pairs Open Dunkeld & Birnam Golf Club, Scotland Better ball stableford £10. Fathers and sons/daughters.
Pairs Open Trump Turnberry Resort, Scotland Fathers and sons/daughters.
Father & Son Pairs OpenWest Hill Golf Club, Scotland. Fathers and sons.
In addition to the tournaments listed above, there are many other opportunities for fathers and sons to enjoy golf together in Scotland. With its stunning scenery and challenging courses, Scotland is a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.
