PGA Tour Returns to Asheville After 84 Years

The PGA Tour is set to make a historic return to Asheville, North Carolina, with the inaugural Biltmore Championship, held from September 17-20. This marks the first time in 84 years that a PGA Tour event will be contested in the Asheville area, bringing a significant boost to the local community. The championship, co-sponsored by Explore Asheville and Biltmore, is part of the FedEx Fall Series.

Professional golfers will compete at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, a Jack Nicklaus-designed course in Arden. The tournament will feature 132 players vying for a $5 million purse and valuable points that determine their PGA TOUR status for the upcoming season. The custom-designed championship trophy adds a unique touch, created by Aubrey Vanderbilt Cecil Baliles.

Explore Asheville has signed a $2.4 million four-year agreement through 2029 for the event, which is expected to generate $15-30 million in economic impact over its contract duration. Daily attendance is projected to exceed 10,000 people, with over 2,000 out-of-state visitors anticipated. The event also includes a community grant program and a youth clinic with First Tee WNC.

Preparations at The Cliffs at Walnut Cove involve growing the rough to nearly six inches, posing an additional challenge for players. The course maintenance team is managing various environmental factors, including weather and local wildlife. The Biltmore Championship aims to support recovery efforts in Western North Carolina following recent natural disasters and showcase the region's beauty and resilience.