special events It’s been a long, winding road
since Kevin Sutherland won the 2019 Rapiscan Systems Classic in a thrilling seven-hole playoff against Scott Parel. The 2020 tournament was just 10 days away when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the sports world and drastically changed all of our lives. Even with the cancellation, the Rapiscan Systems Classic was still able to accomplish one of its biggest goals, helping raise a record $1.68 million for charities in South Mississippi through its Birdies for Charity program. Since then, there have been private pro-am outings, lots of planning for the future and even more money raised for Coastal Mississippi Charities ($2.3 million in 2020-2021). But finally, the Rapiscan Systems Classic has returned
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Par-Tee on the Green and will be held at Grand Bear Golf Club for the first time ever! With the tournament’s return scheduled for March 28 – April 3, Coastal Mississippi feels like it is returning to normalcy. Designed by World Golf Hall of Fame member, Jack Nicklaus, Grand Bear Golf Club has undergone significant course renovations in the last six months, and promises to give those 78 PGA TOUR Champions professionals
a fresh and exciting challenge. For those who haven’t attended the Rapiscan Systems Classic in the past, this annual event can best be described as “Crusin’ the Coast Comes to the Golf Course,” as Tournament Director Stephen Schoettmer puts it. “Even if you’re not a huge golf fan, this tournament is one of the most fun block party style events on the Coast every year. It’s great for families, too, as children 17 and under are granted free admission.” Fans can take in all the action in a variety ways. You’re welcome to follow the players of your choosing as they traverse this amazing course, or you can set up shop in the Corona Premier Patio or VIP Oyster Lounge, two of the luxurious hospitality venues on the 9th and 18th greens. There is also a separate “Patriots Pavilion” that is free for our military veterans and first responders. Already committed to this year’s event are some huge names in the golf world, including two- time tournament champion, Miguel Ángel Jiménez, World Golf Hall of Fame members Ernie Els, Retief Goosen and Vijay Singh, and many more. Come out to Grand Bear Golf Club March 28 – April 3 and see some of the best golfers on the planet make their return to Coastal Mississippi! Tickets are now on sale at RapiscanSystemsClassic.com. Golf Central • Volume 22, Issue 11
