As a Myrtle Beach local and an ardent golf enthusiast, it never ceases to amaze me how the city gets magically transformed in fall each year with a series of elite Pro-Am tournaments. It is no secret that Myrtle Beach is gamely known as the ‘Golf Capital of the World’. With over 100 golf courses dotting this South Carolina’s dense natural beauty, it also hosts some of the most prestigious Pro-Am golf tournaments which offer amateurs the thrilling opportunity of playing alongside professionals.
The Allure of Pro-Am Tournaments
For the uninitiated, a Pro-Am (or Professional-Amateur) golf tournament is where professional golfers team up with amateur players to compete in a laid-back, yet competitive environment. The beauty of these tournaments rests in the ingenious combination of serious professional mastery with the fervor of recreational golfers. The laid-back camaraderie, the fun atmosphere, and the chance to play alongside golf’s true legends, make Pro-Am tournaments a unique spectacle.
South Carolina’s Pro-Am Crown Jewel: The Monday After the Masters
One of the most celebrated annual tournaments hosted in Myrtle Beach is the Hootie & the Blowfish Monday After the Masters. Despite its informal name, this tournament has been attracting some of the world’s best golfers and celebrities since its inception in 1994.
Falling on the Monday following the Masters Tournament, it gives amateurs the unparalleled opportunity to interact, learn, and compete alongside their favorite golf legends and celebrities. The tournament draws a record number of spectators, adding a festive, carnival-like atmosphere to the event. Plus, the proceeds of this tournament are dedicated to promoting junior golf programs and supporting South Carolina-based children’s educational programs and charitable initiatives.
Playing at Premier Myrtle Beach Golf Courses
In addition to the thrill of playing with renowned golfers, these Pro-Am tournaments also grant access to some of the best golf courses in Myrtle Beach. For instance, the Grande Dunes Resort Club, a Roger Rulewich Group design is one of the popular ‒ and challenging ‒ golf course.
Caledonia Golf and Fish Club in Pawleys Island, with its unique blend of natural beauty and challenging play, is a favorite among pros and amateurs alike. Tidewater Golf Club’s tournament-ready layout incorporating unique, natural obstacles is well known among seasoned players.
The Experience Beyond Golf
The beauty of participating in these Pro-Am tournaments extends well beyond the golf course. These tournaments are often complemented with a host of entertainment activities ranging from live concerts to cookouts that make the event a relaxing social gathering as well. Apart from golf, the city of Myrtle Beach itself offers a beach-side resort atmosphere with plenty of attractions for the whole family.
The Verdict
Pro-Am tournaments in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina are not just golf tournaments. They are a beautiful amalgamation of sports, entertainment, and charity that resonates with the spirit of golf and the hospitality unique to the southern states.
Whether you are a seasoned pro, an enthusiastic amateur, or a dedicated spectator, these tournaments satisfy the golfer’s spirit in everyone. And if you take away just one thing from this reading, let it be this: If you have not yet experienced a Pro-Am tournament in Myrtle Beach, you are missing out on one of golf’s greatest experiences. So grab your clubs and join us at the tee!