Cisco APGA Black History Month Classic Returns to TPC Sawgrass
The Cisco APGA Black History Month Classic is set to return to the TPC Sawgrass Dye’s Valley Course, bringing together a field of 54 of the top players on the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour. These talented golfers will compete over 36 holes on one of Florida’s most challenging courses, vying for a $25,000 purse. This prestigious event celebrates excellence in golf while highlighting the APGA’s mission to empower African American and other diverse golfers in their professional careers.
Event Details:
- Dates: Monday, February 17 – Wednesday, February 19
- Location: TPC Sawgrass Dye’s Valley Course, 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Who’s Competing?
The tournament features 54 elite golfers, including some of the most accomplished players on the APGA Tour. The field includes past tournament champions, PGA TOUR veterans, and rising stars striving for professional success.
Notable Players to Watch:
- Xavier Bighaus – A senior at Colorado Christian University and the only amateur in the field. Bighaus recently competed in The Genesis Invitational Collegiate Showcase as the Pathway Player, an honor given to a standout collegiate golfer from a minority background who excels in both academics and athletics.
- Marcus Byrd – A six-time APGA Tour winner with seven PGA TOUR starts, Byrd is among the most experienced and formidable players in the field.
- Jarred Garcia – A Jacksonville native who came close to victory twice last season, securing two second-place finishes on the APGA Tour.
- Chase Johnson – The reigning APGA Player of the Year (2023, 2024), Johnson has already clinched three APGA Tour wins in 2024 and currently resides in West Palm Beach.
- Kamaiu Johnson – A resident of Oviedo, Florida, Johnson has made five PGA TOUR starts, continuing to make an impact on the professional golf scene.
- Will Lowery – Well known beyond the fairways, Lowery is a popular golf media personality who brings insight and charisma to the tournament.
- Willie Mack III – One of the most decorated APGA Tour players, Mack is an Orlando resident with 15 APGA Tour victories and 10 PGA TOUR starts, including the 2024 U.S. Open.
- Gregory Odom, Jr. – The 2024 Mastercard APGA Tour Championship winner, Odom is a player to watch in this year’s competition.
- Jaime Lopez Rivarola – The defending champion of the Cisco APGA Black History Month Classic, aiming to retain his title.
- Troy Taylor III – Winner of the Farmers Insurance Fall Series in November, Taylor secured six top-10 finishes in nine starts last season, including his first professional win.
- Wyatt Worthington II – A seasoned player with five PGA TOUR starts, including two PGA Championship appearances.
Additional Florida-Based Players:
Several talented Florida golfers will also be competing, including:
- Daniel Augustus (Pembroke)
- Logan Batiste (Jacksonville)
- Jeffrey Cunningham (West Palm Beach)
- John-Baptiste Hakizimana (Hobe Sound)
- Gabe Lench (Lake Mary)
- Mahindra Lutchman (Orlando)
- Cameron Riley (ChampionsGate)
- Joey Stills (Davenport)
- Troy Stribling (Jupiter)
- Trey Valentine (Delray Beach)
Why This Event Matters
The Cisco APGA Black History Month Classic is more than just a golf tournament—it’s a celebration of diversity, talent, and opportunity in the world of professional golf. As the APGA continues to open doors for minority players, events like this serve as a platform for golfers to showcase their skills, gain exposure, and take significant strides toward their careers in professional golf.
This year’s tournament promises to deliver high-level competition, compelling storylines, and an inspiring display of perseverance and excellence. Be sure to follow the action and support the players as they take on TPC Sawgrass Dye’s Valley Course in pursuit of victory!
About the APGA
The Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) is a non-profit organization committed to increasing diversity in professional golf. Through competitive opportunities, player development, and mentorship programs, the APGA fosters an environment where African American and other minority golfers can thrive on and off the course.
