The PGA Tour has recognized the Myrtle Beach Classic with the “Best-In-Class Element” award for its innovative and groundbreaking feature: The Q at Myrtle Beach. This places the inaugural Classic among the standout events of the Tour’s 2024 season, recognizing its exceptional creativity, audience engagement and impact on the game.
The award was one of 16 presented at the Tour’s annual Tournament Meetings in Orlando. Of the 41 eligible tournaments, only 10 received honors, with the Myrtle Beach Classic the sole first-year event and dual-field event to be recognized.
The Q at Myrtle Beach helped build excitement for the Myrtle Beach Classic through innovative digital storytelling that engaged a global audience and inspired events like the PGA Tour Creator Classic, further enhancing golf’s accessibility and entertainment value.
“This award underscores how the Myrtle Beach Classic brings fresh energy to the landscape of professional golf,” said Darren Nelson, Myrtle Beach Classic, tournament director. “The groundbreaking Q at Myrtle Beach blends the worlds of digital creators and aspiring professionals to redefine the future of the game through innovation and engagement.”
Conceptualized by Golf Tourism Solutions (GTS) and Visit Myrtle Beach, in partnership with the PGA TOUR, The Q at Myrtle Beach brought together 16 players – eight of whom were prominent digital content creators – for an 18-hole shootout held on March 4, 2024, at TPC Myrtle Beach. The unique qualifier offered an opportunity to secure a sponsor exemption to the Myrtle Beach Classic.
Interest in The Q culminated with a 90-minute recap video released on Play Golf Myrtle Beach’s YouTube channel this past April 23, which drew over one million views worldwide. The video captured the drama, competition and behind-the-scenes moments, and the content was further amplified by participating creators who shared it on their platforms.
South Carolina native and veteran Korn Ferry Tour pro Matt Atkins emerged victorious after a playoff with co-creator George Bryan IV,
“The Myrtle Beach Classic will be held on May 8-11, 2025, at the iconic Dunes Golf and Beach Club as a dual-field tournament on the FedEx Cup regular season.
To purchase tickets and to stay updated on tournament news, visit myrtlebeachclassic.com.
Photo Courtesy of VisitMyrtleBeach.com