St. Augustine Gears Up for the 19th Annual St. Augustine Amateur Golf Tournament!
St. Augustine, Florida, is buzzing with excitement as the city prepares to host the 19th Annual St. Augustine Amateur from December 6-8 at the scenic St. Johns Golf Club. The anticipation is palpable among fans and participants alike, especially after last year’s successful return to this esteemed 54-hole competition, which was temporarily sidelined for two years due to some major course renovations.
A Thrilling Comeback
If you missed it, the tournament resumed last year, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait! Local star Brody Stevenson, a former Bartram Trail High School golfer, clinched the title with a jaw-dropping final-round score of 65, finishing at an impressive 11-under par. He took home the trophy by a slim two-stroke margin, showcasing his talent and determination. This incredible win laid the groundwork for his successful rookie year at Florida Gulf Coast University, where he earned a spot on the Atlantic Sun Conference all-freshman team.
Course Renovations and Changes
For those not in the know, the St. Johns Golf Club underwent extensive renovations, courtesy of golf course architect Erik Larsen and General Manager Wes Tucker. They introduced some awesome “traditional throwback” features that give the course a unique flair. The revamped layout is a challenging par-71, 7,009 yards long, and it reopened just in time last November for the 2023 tournament’s resumption.
One of the coolest things about the new schedule is that it takes place later in the year. It avoids clashing with college golf schedules, making it the perfect time for talented players to showcase their skills. For years, the tournament took place in October, but now it falls between the fall and spring slates, attracting plenty of college talent!
Giving Back to the Community
And it’s not just about the golf! The tournament is committed to supporting youth development through the First Tee–North Florida. The net proceeds from this year’s event are expected to bring in over $25,000, pushing the total support provided to nearly $500,000 since the tournament began in 2004. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
A Diverse Field of Players
A Glorious History
The St. Augustine Amateur has a rich history, with past champions hailing from diverse places such as the United States, Malaysia, Italy, South Korea, England, Norway, and Thailand. Some of the most notable winners have included future PGA Tour stars like Peter Uihlein, Zach Sucher, and Blayne Barber, along with Korn Ferry Tour names like A.J. Crouch and Jack Maguire.
Mark Your Calendars!
So, if you’re in the St. Augustine area or just a golf enthusiast looking for a thrilling event to catch, mark your calendars! From December 6-8, get ready to see some amazing talent at the St. Augustine Amateur. Whether you’re out on the course or following along, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!