The annual Georgia-Florida Golf Classic will featured a number of former Bulldogs and Gators.
The annual Georgia-Florida clash is the most unique rivalry in college football. “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” has spawned many traditions stretching from Georgia’s Golden Isles to St. Augustine’s sandy beaches and everywhere in between.
One of the longest running is the Georgia-Florida Golf Classic that takes place in Jekyll Island, Ga. Convening this year for the 35th consecutive time, on October 29-31, The Classic has been directly linked to the game in Jacksonville for over one-third of the series 93 meetings.
Held on Jekyll’s three 18-hole golf courses, The Classic annually averages between 350-400 players from 10 different states. In nearly four decades, over 12,000 people have played.
“During Georgia-Florida week, The Classic is the premiere event on the Golden Isles,” stated Johnny Paulk, PGA Professional and event founder and director. “You cannot find another tournament that offers more for the price.”
For $275, participants receive a practice round on Wednesday, two tournament rounds, Wednesday night Tailgate Party and Thursday night Rockin’ Seafood Feast in the Jekyll Island Convention Center.
On tournament days, breakfast is included and Bubba Burger, the “Official burger of The Classic”, will provide lunch. Georgia based Bridgestone Golf is also involved as the event’s “Official golf ball.”
In an effort “to bring the game to the greens”, The Classic again welcomes 16 former Bulldog and Gator football players, eight from each school, as its celebrities.
They include Georgia’s Keith Henderson, Brandon Tolbert, Bernard Williams, Daryll “DJ” Jones, Dale Williams, Herman Archie and Matt Storm. Representing Florida will be Travis Taylor, Doug Johnson, Terry LeCount, Willie Jackson, Jr., Willie Jackson, Sr., Tate Casey, Charlie “Horse” Williams, and Chris Hetland.
Net proceeds from the event benefit the Jekyll Island Foundation and supports the conservation, preservation and education efforts on Jekyll Island.
To register, visit www.jekyllisland.com/ga-fl-weekend/.