In a significant boost for golf enthusiasts and local businesses alike, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is championing the highly anticipated Senior PGA Championship 2026. Kicking off this Thursday, April 16, at The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, this event not only marks the return of a major golf tournament to Florida after more than 25 years but also promises to attract visitors from far and wide. The last time this prestigious tournament graced Florida’s greens was in 2000 at PGA National Golf Club in Palm Beach Gardens, with Doug Tewell taking home the title.
The upcoming championship will be the 86th edition and runs until April 19. With a prize purse of three million dollars, the stakes are high, especially with $540,000 set aside for the tournament winner. It’s certain to bring a flurry of excitement, as this event has drawn a field of 156 players, featuring an impressive roster of talent that includes 21 major champions, 11 former Senior PGA champions, and 10 former Ryder Cup captains. Notable names to watch include defending champion Ángel Cabrera, Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington, and Bernhard Langer, all of whom add a delightful mix of nostalgia and competition to the lineup, as emphasized by DeSantis’s remarks on the return of familiar faces from the 1990s and 2000s.Cibercuba reports that the projected economic impact for the Sarasota-Bradenton region could soar to $70 million, with Manatee and Sarasota counties contributing a total of $9 million over three years to secure this event.
Delight and Anticipation for Golf Lovers
As excitement builds, golf aficionados can expect an impressive spectacle at The Concession, which was inaugurated in 2006 and designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin. Renowned for its strategically placed bunkers and challenging water hazards, it promises to be a thrilling site for both players and spectators. This championship marks the first event for the PGA Tour Champions at The Concession, as the tournament has historically been held in Florida since 1940 until it was last hosted here in 2000.Golfweek highlights that the Senior PGA Championship, first initiated in 1937 at the Augusta National Golf Club, is the oldest major championship in senior golf, cementing its importance within the sport.
The gates for spectators will open early, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the tournament atmosphere. On Thursday and Friday, attendees can arrive as early as 7:00 AM, while the weekend will see gates opening at 7:00 AM and closing at 7:00 PM. Tickets are available online, with options ranging from $61 for daily grounds tickets to $636 for the exclusive Club PGA tickets — a tempting offer for any die-hard golf fan eager to catch all the action up close.
The Future of Golf in Florida
Interestingly, this year marks only the beginning for The Concession Golf Club, as it has secured a three-year agreement to host the Senior PGA Championship in 2027 and 2028. With its reputation for hosting top-notch tournaments, it’s poised to become a staple for elite golf events in Florida. The course itself is celebrated not just for its beauty but also for its historical significance, the name “The Concession” honoring a pivotal moment from the 1969 Ryder Cup between Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin.
As we gear up for an exciting four days of golf, it’s undeniable that the Senior PGA Championship is set to deliver spectacular moments, fierce competition, and a substantial economic boost to the region. With the spotlight shining bright on Bradenton, all eyes will be on the greens. Let’s tee off the excitement!
For more details on this thrilling event and participant insights, visit Golf Austria.