The LPGA's latest move leans on its past to build its future
· Yahoo Sports
The LPGA is reuniting with an old friend to revive one of its most beloved tournaments for 2027 after an 18-year absence.
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On Wednesday, the tour announced it will be returning to Corning, N.Y., for the first time since 2009 when it plays The Classic at Corning Country Club on May 27-30. Corning Inc., will be a presenting sponsor, and the tournament will feature a $5 million, making it one of the tour’s highest paying non-major events.
The return coincides with Corning Inc., celebrating its 175th anniversary this year.
Corning and the LPGA had worked together for 31 years, the tour finding a following in Western New York and the tournament severing as one of the longest running events in tour history and the longest with a single sponsor.
A tee marker served as a tribute to the tournament during its last playing in 2009.
Michael Cohen
It’s return feels like the tournament is being removed from amber, as the course and sponsor will be the same as it was previously.
“The return of The Classic brings together the LPGA’s history and its future,” said LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler in a press release. “As we continue shaping the next chapter of our Tour, we’re building on the qualities that have defined the LPGA for decades—incredible championships, committed partners, passionate communities and unforgettable experiences for our athletes. I’ve been blown away by the Corning team’s thoughtfulness and commitment to returning this event to the Tour, with players and community at the heart of their plans and ambitions. All the legends I’ve spoken to remember this event so fondly, and we can’t wait to create a new generation of memories together in Corning.”
IMG will be the event’s promoter and oversee all operational aspects of the tournament.
When the last edition of the event was held in 2009, the winner was Yani Tseng and the overall purse was $1.5 million. Among the notable champions of the event were JoAnne Carner, Patty Sheehan, Pat Bradley, Betsy King, Beth Daniel, Rosie Jones, Juli Inkster and Annika Sorenstam.