The 24th Annual Pioneer Golf Tournament is set to take place June 26–28 at the historic Clearview Golf Club, bringing together golfers from across the country to celebrate both competition and a powerful legacy rooted in inclusion and perseverance.
Established in 2002, the Pioneer Golf Tournament was created to honor the vision of Clearview founder William “Bill” Powell and to preserve the history of one of the most significant golf courses in the United States. The event continues to attract players nationwide, offering a unique opportunity to experience a course that holds a singular place in golf history.
Interested golfers are urged to secure your registration early, as this year is very special—Clearview is celebrating the 80th Anniversary of this historic, family-owned golf course. Early bird registration ends APRIL 30! REGISTER NOW. It’s a great time to support this historic golf course and for your chance to win a $10,000 Hole-In-One prize on hole number 2.
“It is incredible that a Black man had a vision to build a golf course and then to follow through with that vision in 1946,” said Renee Powell. “It is so amazing because he had just returned home from WWII and as a Black soldier was denied the GI Bill because they were only for white soldiers yet he built a golf course for everyone.”
Clearview Golf Club is widely recognized as the first golf course in America that was designed, built, owned, and operated by an African American. Powell, a World War II veteran, created the course in 1946 after facing racial discrimination that prevented him from playing at other facilities. Determined to build a place where all people could enjoy the game, he transformed farmland into a golf course by hand, opening Clearview to the public in 1948.
Over the decades, Clearview has become known as “America’s Course,” a symbol of equality and access in a sport that historically excluded people of color. The course was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001, further cementing its importance not only to golf but to American history.
Today, that legacy is carried forward by Renee Powell, who serves as the head golf professional at Clearview and her brother Larry who serves a Course Superintendent.
The daughter of Bill Powell, Renee learned the game on the very course her father built and went on to become the second Black woman to compete on the LPGA Tour. Her career has spanned decades, and she is widely respected as both a trailblazer and one of the game’s most influential ambassadors.
In addition to her playing career, Powell has dedicated her life to growing the game and promoting inclusion. She has been deeply involved in youth development programs, international outreach, and initiatives aimed at making golf more accessible to underrepresented communities. Under her leadership, Clearview has evolved into more than a golf course—it is a living educational space and community hub.
The Pioneer Golf Tournament reflects that mission. More than just a competitive event, it serves as a celebration of history, culture, and progress in the game. Participants not only compete on a storied course but also engage with the rich heritage that continues to shape its identity.
Clearview also plays a vital role beyond tournament play. It hosts programs focused on youth engagement, veterans’ rehabilitation, and community enrichment, reinforcing its commitment to making golf a tool for personal growth and connection.
As the 24th annual event approaches, the Pioneer Golf Tournament stands as a tribute to the enduring vision of Bill Powell and the ongoing leadership of Renee Powell. Together, their legacy continues to inspire generations, ensuring that the game of golf remains open, welcoming, and accessible to all.
Tournament Contact: George Bowman
323-972-6280
[email protected]
For more information, and to register, visit
https://app.eventcaddy.com/events/pioneer-24th-annual-golf-tournament
