In a few short weeks, golfers and sports fans from all over will head to the greens for Arkansas’ first-ever PGA Tour-sanctioned golf tournament.
The Simmons Bank Championship, presented by Stephens, is a PGA Tour Champions playoff event, where the tournament will serve as the second round of the PGA Tour Champions’ annual Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs. The top 54 players in the standings will qualify to compete for $2.3 million in prize money and a chance to earn their spot among the top 35 in the final event of the season.
As seven days of pro competitions, pro-am play and VIP events descend on Pleasant Valley Country Club, Soirée spoke with Simmons First National Corporation Executive Chairman George Makris Jr. to get an inside look into the exciting week ahead.
When will tournament tee times be announced?
GM: Official tee times will be announced closer to the tournament, but we’re excited the tournament will be featured on the Golf Channel from 2-5 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The first swing can’t come soon enough.
Will any Arkansas golfers be playing?
GM: Since this is a finals event, it’s still too early to tell, but we have two PGA Tour Champions players on Team Simmons Bank: Ken Duke and Glen Day. We always enjoy keeping up with them at tournaments.
What can attendees expect to experience at the event?
GM: Three days of incredible golf following legends of the game. While a close look at golf is to be expected, we’ll also have activities that will make for a great family outing throughout tournament weekend, including Folds of Honor Friday with a military flyover and Saturday morning Arkansas Razorback tailgate activities with video boards and a family fun zone. The weekend will conclude on Sunday with the trophy presentation.
Where is the best location at PV to watch the tournament?
GM: There won’t be a bad spot to watch the tournament. However, I’d have to say the best spot would be from the Arkansas Champions Club at the newly renovated Pleasant Valley Country Club Clubhouse. I’m excited to look out to 18 green from the patio. Not only will it have the best view for seeing players, but there will be great food and access to hospitality on 15 and 16 green.
Tell us about the tournament’s charitable aspect.
GM: When we decided on sponsoring this tournament last year, one of the first things we discussed was the importance of tying everything back to charity. All proceeds from the tournament will be given to various charitable organizations throughout Arkansas.
Anything else you want readers to know about the tournament?
GM: We’re excited for Arkansans to experience the inaugural Simmons Bank Championship presented by Stephens. We truly believe there’s something for everyone whether you’re an avid golf fan or not. We’ve enjoyed working with Pleasant Valley Country Club and the PGA Tour to bring such a big event to our capital city, and we’re already looking forward to next year’s tournament.
SIMMONS BANK CHAMPIONSHIP
Oct. 21-27 | Pleasant Valley Country Club
Info: simmonsbankchampionship.com