On Wed. May 7, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette visited The Dunes Golf & Beach Club to officially commence the state's second PGA TOUR event. Their presence underscored the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic's significance to the state's tourism and sports industries.
During the event, Gov. McMaster highlighted the tournament's role in promoting South Carolina's coastal attractions and boosting the local economy. He stated, “To have these magnificent golfers from all over the world who go anywhere is a great thing because we all learn something from it.”
Lt. Gov. Evette echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of such events in showcasing the state's hospitality and charm. She remarked, “Whether you’re down in Hilton Head or you’re here in Myrtle Beach and you see the beautiful greens, and you see the wonderful ocean, you see the lighthouse at Harbortown, and it just makes you want to come here, so it’s got an amazing economic impact for our state.”
- In its inaugural year, 2024, the PGA TOUR event generated an impressive $15.4 million in economic impact, marking it as one of the top revenue-generating events in the area, second only to the Carolina Country Music Festival.
- The 2024 tournament attracted over 40,000 spectators, with approximately half traveling from various parts of the U.S. and 12 other countries, boosting local tourism and hospitality sectors.
- Additionally, the Classic contributed $225,000 to nine local charities, underscoring its commitment to community enrichment.
Tracy Conner, Interim President and CEO of Visit Myrtle Beach, one of the event’s title sponsors, also noted with the 2025 tournament underway, expectations are high for surpassing the previous year’s impact, further solidifying Myrtle Beach’s reputation as a "The Golf Capital of the World.”
Now with ONEflight International joining in as co-title sponsor this year, new enthusiasm surrounds the tournament with the Wednesday Pro-Am attracting a host of celebrities.
ONEflight CEO Ferren Rajput further expressed his commitment to enhancing the tournament experience, announcing that he will continue to leverage his network to bring celebrity involvement and prestige to the growing tournament, aiming to create a more dynamic and engaging event in future years.
Locally Crafted Trophy From Brookgreen Gardens Unveiled
Tournament Director Darren Nelson also unveiled this year's tournament trophy, a handcrafted piece designed by local sculptor Bryan Rapp, who serves as the Director of the Master Sculpture Program at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet. The trophy, donated by Brookgreen Gardens under the direction of President and CEO Page Kiniry, was created using the ancient Lost Wax process, taking approximately six months to complete.
Rapp said the design reflects the unique coastal character and artistic spirit of the Myrtle Beach region. The trophy will be presented to the tournament winner on May 11 after the final round of play.
Brookgreen Gardens' Sculpture Bryan Rapp showcases the design for this year's trophy.
