#USA #Arkansas #Simmons Bank #Little Rock #First Tee

Simmons Bank Championship Earns Prestigious Award and Announces Major Investment

The Simmons Bank Championship, presented by Stephens, has proudly announced its receipt of the prestigious PGA TOUR Champions President's Award. This esteemed recognition, awarded to tournaments demonstrating exceptional community impact and excellence, underscores the championship's dedication to charitable giving, community engagement, and outstanding hospitality. At the recent Tournament of the Year Celebration held at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Little Rock, this achievement was celebrated by sponsors, partners, and community leaders, highlighting the accomplishments of the event in its second year.

Michael Cataldo, Tournament Director of the Simmons Bank Championship, expressed his gratitude, stating, "Receiving the President's Award in just our second year is an incredible honor and a testament to the people who make this tournament possible." The award emphasizes the tournament's commitment to delivering a world-class experience while focusing on charitable contributions throughout Arkansas. In its inaugural year alone, the championship made significant donations, raising over $250,000 for various local charities, including a substantial $100,000 contribution to First Tee of Central Arkansas.

In celebration of its growing mission, the tournament has announced a cornerstone gift of $125,000 to First Tee of Central Arkansas. This significant investment aligns with the championship's goal of reinvesting in the communities it serves. Freddie Black, President of the Arkansas Champions Trust, explained, "As the championship continues to grow, so does our responsibility to give back." The funds will support a multi-phase initiative aimed at enhancing the development pathway for youth involved with First Tee as the organization marks its 25th year serving Arkansas youngsters.

The commitment to furthering youth engagement is evident in the plans to incorporate advanced technology. A key highlight will be the integration of TrackMan technology and the establishment of an indoor putting studio, providing a cutting-edge training environment for the young participants. This initiative ensures that kids have access to modern teaching tools that align with the standards shaping the game of golf nationally, creating a year-round learning environment unimpeded by weather conditions.

Monica Blake, Executive Director of First Tee of Central Arkansas, remarked on the importance of this investment, saying, "This investment allows us to bring state-of-the-art golf technology to First Tee of Central Arkansas and, importantly, to our kids." By utilizing modern tools like TrackMan and enhancing classroom resources, First Tee aims to foster comprehensive player development on and off the golf course. Additionally, the funding will support classroom enhancements, new equipment, and essential materials, ensuring every participant has access to the necessary resources for their growth.

The Simmons Bank Championship, owned and operated by the Arkansas Champions Trust, has swiftly established itself as a premier event within the PGA TOUR Champions calendar. With accolades such as The Players Award received in its first year of operation, the tournament's reputation for excellence continues to grow.

Our future aspirations remain focused on building an event that the Arkansas community can take pride in, as articulated by Black – "This recognition reinforces that we're doing it the right way with purpose, partnership, and pride in our community."

The Simmons Bank Championship will return for its next edition from October 26 to November 1, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas, continuing its pledge to promote competitive excellence and make a lasting positive impact through charitable initiatives. For more information about the championship and its upcoming events, visit the official tournament website and follow them on social media.