Photo Credit: The Players
THE PLAYERS Championship, hosted in Ponte Vedra, Florida at the TPC Sawgrass, is amongst one of the most anticipated golf events of the year. Its prestigious credibility stems from their grand host course, record-breaking winners, and family-friendly vacation location. The golf tournament also features the largest prize fund set at $10.5 million from 2015 to 2017.
Past notable winners includeTiger Woods (2001, 2013) and the legendary Jack Nicklaus (1974, 1976, 1978). And, just last year THE PLAYERS’ notability grew even more when the South Korean golfer, Kim Si-Woo, became the youngest to win the tournament at just 21-years-old. THE PLAYERS Championship 2018 offers more than just a golf tournament if you can make it a week-long stay. Below is a glimpse into the world that awaits you if you decide to attend. If you weren’t considering THE PLAYERS Championship before, we’re sure you’ll want to fly out to Ponte Vedra, Florida come May 8 – 13.
1. THE PLAYERS CLUB VIP EXPERIENCE
Photo Credit: The Players
The TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse will be reimagined as THE PLAYERS Championship invite-only, ultra VIP experience for those seeking unparalleled hospitality. You’ll have weekly access to the TPC Sawgrass Clubhouse during practice and tournament rounds; a private viewing space on #17 Tee and #18 Green Tuesday through Sunday; premium food and beverages included. Additionally you will receive a $500 shopping credit provided per ticket to shop from the TPC Sawgrass Pro Shop featuring premium brands and unique merchandise offered only at this location. Upon your valet arrival, a bottle of champagne will greet you to commemorate your presence. Guests of THE PLAYERS Club are issued their tickets individually for each tournament day with more information available upon request.
2. THE SUITES AND LOUNGES WITH IMPECCABLE VIEWS
Photo Credit: The Players
“We have built the Disneyland equivalent for golf fans,” shared Jared Rice, Executive Director of THE PLAYERS. He and THE PLAYERS team have dreamed up impeccable renovations to The Stadium Course. You can experience the prestigious golf tournament through a world-class lens from one of the many lounges spread throughout the grounds. The Turn, located on the 18th Fairway with outside views of #18 Fairway and Green, and inside views of #9 Fairway, offers a full premium bar and tasty food available for purchase. It also features HD TV feeds, open indoor and outdoor seating, climate controlled interiors, and private restrooms. “THE PLAYERS Championship is truly unlike any other sporting event in the world,” said Rice. “Fans have a front row seat to watch the world’s best professional golfers play one of the most iconic courses in the game, but this tournament is so much more than just great golf—it is the social event of the year. There’s something for everyone at THE PLAYERS, and it is our goal for fans to walk away from their time here saying, ‘That was one of the best experiences of my life.'”
3. WILLIAM HILL ESTATE WINERY TASTING
Photo Credit: The Players
William Hill Estate Winery is the official wine of the tournament and will be showcased at THE PLAYERS Championship. Its stylish and contemporary tasting room, The Wine Lounge, found in their Napa Valley estate location, will be recreated on site. Wines will include Napa Valley Chardonnay, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast Chardonnay, and North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon.
4. THE DELECTABLE VENDORS
Photo Credit: Restaurant Medure
Tournament grounds will feature local vendors throughout in support of community businesses. The roster will include Argentinian bites from Mama’s Kitchen and Tex-Mex from the fan favorite, TacoLu, also known as Tacos on 12, on game day. The affluent foodie will be thrilled to know that the Four-Diamond award-winning restaurant, Restaurant Medure, will be present to satisfy their refined cravings.
5. EXPERIENCE THE SAWGRASS MARRIOTT
Photo Credit: Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa
When it comes to convenient accommodations close to TPC Sawgrass, look no further than the Sawgrass Marriott. Its unmatched privileges include complimentary rides to the golf course via shuttle, or scenic golf cart excursions upon request. Access to the hotel’s “The Living Room” is included which includes featured complimentary snacks and beverages such as coffee and wine.
The resort is surrounded by dreamy greenery, a remarkable lagoon with exotic wildlife, waterfalls, bonfires, family-friendly games, and a large pool surrounded by lounge chairs. Three restaurants can be found on the property, a Starbucks, and a large plush lounge. Their private beach club is also accessible via their shuttle. You’ll receive a free one-year magazine subscription to Golf Digest, a complimentary happy hour reception on the deck, and more.
6. TRANQUIL THERAPY SESSIONS IN THE CITY
Photo Credit: The Players
Share the same masseuse expert as your favorite golf player at the tranquil Massage Envy as they are the official massage therapists for the players. Their preferred service is the stretch and massage, which helps maintain the body’s health and flexibility during the tournament. The spa is only 11 minutes away from the Sawgrass Marriott.
7. TOURING THE HISTORICAL WONDERMENT OF ST. AUGUSTINE
Photo Credit: Saint Augustine Historical Society
Exploring the city of St. Augustine during your downtime is definitely something to consider. You’ll only be 40-minutes away from the beach and historical landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the oldest surviving Spanish colonial in America, the González–Alvarez House.
