St. Augustine Gears Up for the 19th St. Augustine Amateur Golf Tournament
St. Augustine, Florida, is all set to host the 19th installment of the beloved St. Augustine Amateur from December 6-8 at the beautiful St. Johns Golf Club. This tournament, which first started back in 2004, has become a highlight of the local sporting calendar and this year, excitement is in the air!
A Look Back: Tournament Resumed Last Year
After a two-year hiatus caused by course renovations, the tournament made a grand return last year. A brand-new layout designed by renowned golf course architect Erik Larsen has left players buzzing with compliments. The course, which is now a unique par-71, 7,009-yard playground, unveiled its new features just in time for the tournament, reopening in late November 2022. The month change from October to December not only spiced things up but also allowed for a more competitive field by timing it perfectly between college golf seasons.
Last Year’s Highlight: Brody Stevenson’s Brilliant Win
In a thrilling finale last December, former Bartram Trail High School golfer, Brody Stevenson, clinched the title with a stunning final round of 65, finishing at 11-under par and winning by two strokes. This incredible performance gave him a nudge into the spotlight, eventually earning him a spot on the Atlantic Sun Conference all-freshman team for Florida Gulf Coast University just months later. It’s stories like Stevenson’s that inspire us all!
A Brighter Future: The Impact on Local Youth
The St. Augustine Amateur doesn’t just benefit players; it also gives back to the community. Sponsored funds are set to bolster First Tee–North Florida, a fantastic youth development organization. Over the years, this tournament has generated nearly half a million dollars for these young golfers-in-training, with another $25,000 expected to roll in this year. This continuous support has impacted countless local kids and helped foster a love for golf among them.
Who Will Compete This Year?
This year’s event is gearing up for a maximum field of 84 players. Expect to see a fascinating mix of current NCAA Division I collegiate golfers, highly-ranked junior players, elite mid-amateurs, and even some international athletes putting their skills to the test. Last year, the age range of competitors was between 13 to 44, proving that golf really is a game for all ages!
The Champions’ Legacy
With a rich history of winners hailing from all corners of the globe— from the United States to Malaysia, Italy, and even Thailand— the tournament showcases some exceptional talent. Among the notable past champions are future PGA Tour stars like Peter Uihlein, Zach Sucher, and Blayne Barber, not to mention Korn Ferry Tour players such as A.J. Crouch and Jack Maguire. It’s clear that the St. Augustine Amateur has served as a stepping stone for many aspiring professionals!
Final Thoughts: An Event Not to Miss
If you’re looking for a thrilling weekend filled with top-notch golf, then head down to St. Augustine this December 6-8. With a rich legacy, a brand-new course, and a vibrant community commitment, the St. Augustine Amateur is a must-see event. Who knows? You might just witness the next big star being born on that course!
