One of the nation’s preeminent golf course owner-operators has joined forces with one of the world’s top players for a first-time, international junior competition.
Founders Group International (FGI), the Dustin Johnson Golf School and Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday are collaborating to host the inaugural Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship, set for Feb. 13-15, 2016 at TPC Myrtle Beach.
Some 90 players worldwide are expected to come to the Grand Strand for this event. Dustin Johnson, currently ranked among the world’s top 10 PGA TOUR players, has put his support behind a competition designed to give players a sense of what the pros experience on tour, while also providing a forum to compete against top-level junior players from around the world.
“Junior golf was vital to my development as a player, and I’m excited to help launch an event that will grow into one of the nation’s premier tournaments,” said Johnson. “I lived in Myrtle Beach for nearly 10 years and still consider the area home, so I know it’s an ideal host for the event. I’ve played TPC Myrtle Beach more than any other course, and it will offer our players a great challenge.”
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Dustin Johnson, one of the world’s best players, to launch the game’s next great junior event,” said Nick Dou, President of Founders Group International. “TPC Myrtle Beach, a top 100 caliber course, is an ideal host and will help us provide the best tournament experience in junior golf. We are looking forward to bringing golf’s next generation of stars to Myrtle Beach.”
“We will focus on attracting a world class field and providing Dustin Johnson World Junior Golf Championship participants an experience similar to what they will one day enjoy at high-level collegiate or even professional events,” said Allen Terrell, the director of instruction at the Dustin Johnson Golf School. “TPC Myrtle Beach is one of the best public courses in America and an ideal venue for the event.”
Johnson’s involvement with the tournament reflects his long-time commitment to junior golf, particularly in South Carolina, where he grew into one of the world’s best players. Through the Dustin Johnson Foundation, which is headquartered in Myrtle Beach, Johnson has donated more than $250,000 to junior golf, sponsoring numerous events throughout the state and helping cover entry costs for kids who need financial assistance.
The event seeks volunteers to serve in a number of capacities, including at the driving range and in the locker room, and to provide scoring, transportation and player assistance. For more information on this event, visit www.WorldJuniorGolfChampionship.com.