| The wait is over—the 2025 APGA Tour season is here, and we’re starting with a bang. |
| The sixth annual APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational is set for January 25–26 at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course, providing a stage for our players to shine under the same conditions as the game’s best. The event will take place in conjunction with the PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open, with Sunday’s final round broadcast live on Golf Channel for the fourth consecutive year from 4:30-7p.m. ET. |
Sixth-annual event set for Saturday, January 25 and Sunday, January 26 at Torrey Pines Golf Course; Invitational will take place in conjunction with the PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open® and air on Golf Channel
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (January 15, 2025) – Officials from the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering African American and other diverse golfers to excel in professional golf, have revealed the 18-player field for the sixth-annual APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational. The event aims to showcase and support talented minority golfers as they compete at the highest levels of the sport.
This 36-hole event will kick off the APGA Tour’s 2025 season, with a field of the Tour’s top players competing on the Torrey Pines North Course on Saturday, January 25, and the South Course on Sunday, January 26. The event will take place in conjunction with the PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open, with Sunday’s final round broadcast live on Golf Channel for the fourth consecutive year from 1:30 p.m. – 4 p.m. PT.
Farmers®, the PGA TOUR and the APGA Tour continue to prioritize helping remove barriers to entry for golfers and creating development opportunities on and off the course. The organizations are also focused on helping players have access to the tools and resources necessary to elevate their career paths and business acumen. The total purse for the Farmers Insurance Invitational is $100,000, with $30,000 awarded to the tournament winner.
“We are proud to return to Torrey Pines for the sixth-annual APGA Farmers Insurance Invitational,” said APGA Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board Ken Bentley. “This event provides a phenomenal, world-class experience for our players paired with an incredible opportunity to engage with PGA TOUR players on an elite golf course. We look forward to another celebration of remarkable talent and a great kickoff to the 2025 APGA Tour season in San Diego.”
The 18-player field includes the following players, along with how they qualified:
Per APGA Tour regulations, players in the APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational field must be full-time members of the 2024 APGA Tour unless otherwise stated below.
Top player in the season-ending 2023-24 Bridgestone APGA Collegiate Ranking (as of May 22, 2024)
Top six eligible players from the final 2024 APGA Cisco Cup points list (as of August 13, 2024)
Top three eligible players from the final 2024 APGA Farmers Fall Series standings* (as of November 14, 2024)
Top player in the 2024-2025 Bridgestone APGA Collegiate Ranking (as of October 30, 2024**)
Top player from the 2024 APGA Cisco Junior Series presented by APGA Tour and Cameron Champ Foundation final ranking (Nov. 14, 2024)
Six APGA Tour players as nominated by APGA Tour and approved by the APGA Tour Farmers Insurance Invitational exemption committee (as of November 17, 2024)
Additional Criteria:
*Not otherwise qualified through the above Cisco Cup standings
**players are eligible to receive this exemption one time during their college career
(a) – player is an amateur
APGA Player Profiles
Below you will find brief player profiles on five standout individuals who will compete in the field this January, including Chase Johnson, Troy Taylor II, Michael Bradham, Kieron van Wyk and Cole Stevens. If you would like to view biographies for all 2025 Farmers Insurance Invitational participants, please click here.
A top performer in 2024, Chase Johnson was named APGA Tour Player of the Year for the second year in a row, after earning the most combined points in APGA Tour competitions throughout the Cisco Cup Series, the APGA Farmers Insurance Fall Series and two Cisco Invitational events. A few of Johnson’s notable accolades from last season include winning the 2024 Cisco Cup Championship title, becoming the fourth Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption to make the cut at The Genesis Invitational and securing a victory at the APGA Ascension Classic.
In his first full season on the APGA Tour, Troy Taylor II also fared well, finishing as the overall champion of the Farmers Insurance Fall Series in November. Consistent play throughout the season resulted in six top-10 finishes in nine starts and his first professional win at the APGA Tour Farmers Fall Series event in Seaview, New Jersey this past October.
Another consistent force on the field, Michael Bradham had a memorable 2024, culminating the season as recipient of the prestigious Adrian Stills Award presented by Cisco, named for APGA Co-founder Adrian Stills and given to the player who best embodies qualities of character, sportsmanship, courage and giving back to the game and community. His consistency led to a top-three finish in the Farmers Insurance Fall Series Finale, which built upon his earlier successes on the NTPGA Players Tour with two top-25 finishes.
College of Charleston senior Kieron van Wyk earned a spot in the 2025 Farmers Insurance Invitational by finishing on top of the 2024-2025 Bridgestone APGA Collegiate Ranking as of October 30, 2024. This season marked the third consecutive year van Wyk was named First Team All-CAA (Coastal Athletic Association), and in 2022, he was named Individual CAA Champion, making him the first Black golfer in CAA history to win medalist honors at the league tournament. His success on the course is a testament to his consistent excellence and impact on collegiate golf.
Cole Stevens, a graduate student at Augusta University, earned a top spot on the 2023-2024 Bridgestone APGA Collegiate Ranking, landing him a spot in the 2025 Farmers Insurance Invitational. Last season, he was named Southland All-Conference First Team and secured the Southland Conference Men’s Golf Player of the Year title.
In addition to the Farmers Insurance Invitational, APGA Tour professional Willie Mack III received a sponsor exemption to compete in the PGA TOUR’s 2025 Farmers Insurance Open, scheduled to take place Wednesday, January 22 – Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Torrey Pines Golf Course. The exemption is also part of Farmers Insurance’s continued commitment to the Advocates Professional Golf Association (APGA) Tour and its work to increase diversity in golf.
The support of the APGA Tour and its players is part of an ongoing effort from Farmers Insurance to help advance its commitment to growth in the game of golf. The national insurer provides support for APGA Tour and the APGA Foundation to help provide assistance for players at all stages of their journey. To learn more about the APGA and how to support, please see here.
About the APGA Tour
The APGA Tour was established in 2010 as a non-profit organization with the mission to bring greater diversity to the game of golf. The APGA Tour Board of Directors works to accomplish this by hosting and operating professional golf tournaments, player development programs, mentoring programs and by introducing the game to inner city young people. In addition to conducting 18 tournaments awarding over $1 million in prize and bonus money in 2024, the APGA has organized a Player Development Program to aid young minority golfers as they work to chase their goals in professional golf.
Carter Bona, the owner of Carter’s Spectrum Golf, invites golf enthusiasts to join him for the Ultimate Golf Tournament Challenge at the African American Golf Expo & Forum. This exciting event promises to combine skill, fun, and the chance to win exclusive Spectrum Golf gear.
Taking place on Friday, January 24, in Orange County, Orlando, the tournament is open to golfers of all skill levels, from seasoned pros to those who enjoy friendly competition. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their talent, enjoy a great day on the course, and connect with like-minded individuals passionate about the game. Winners will walk away with high-quality apparel and gear from Spectrum Golf, including items that reflect Carter’s personal journey and mission.
Spectrum Golf is more than a brand—it’s a movement. Carter, who is on the Autism Spectrum, founded Spectrum Golf to inspire others to embrace their differences and work hard to achieve their dreams. Each pair of Spectrum Golf pants carries an inspirational message on the inner belt loop, encouraging wearers to “be determined” and “lead the way.” Through his 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Carter’s Spectrum Golf, he provides free golf gear and lessons to children, making the sport more accessible and fostering its growth.
13-year-old Carter’s passion for golf and his commitment to inclusivity are at the heart of this event. By participating, attendees not only enjoy a day of golf but also support a mission that inspires others to embrace their unique qualities and reach for their dreams. Don’t miss this unforgettable event—register today at https://lnkd.in/eFRyKxM7. Donations to support Spectrum Golf’s mission are also welcome. Let’s tee off and make a difference!
This year, the African American Golf EXPO & Forum, held alongside the PGA Show, invites attendees to contribute to the community through our “Sock Campaign.”
Donations for the “Sock Campaign” can be made on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. Items can be dropped off between 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM in Room W206 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Alternatively, donations can be brought to the Networking Reception held from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM in the Florida Ballroom, Rooms B&C, at the Hyatt Regency Orlando, located at 9801 International Drive.
Attendees are kindly asked to bring socks, which will be paired with donations of “This is Good Water,” showcasing our collective commitment to service and humanity. Essie and Malachi Knowles of Inner City Youth Golfers, Inc. will serve as the event’s Co-Directors for National Community Service.
James R. Beatty, founder of the African American Golf Expo & Forum thanks you for your support. For more information email Essie Knowles at [email protected].
German sportswear giant PUMA has initiated legal action against Tiger Woods’ clothing line, Sun Day Red, alleging that its logo bears a striking resemblance to PUMA’s iconic “Leaping Cat” design, which has been in use since 1969. In its petition to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, PUMA claims the similarities between the logos and the overlapping nature of the goods and services could result in consumer confusion, according to Joel Beall of Golf Digest.
This lawsuit comes on the heels of another legal battle involving Sun Day Red. In September, Tigeraire filed a separate lawsuit accusing the brand of “unlawfully hijacking” its leaping tiger logo design. Sun Day Red countersued, and the matter remains unresolved.
Sun Day Red, introduced in February 2024, marked a new chapter for Woods after the conclusion of his 27-year partnership with Nike. The brand’s logo—a leaping tiger with 15 stripes—pays homage to Woods’ 15 major championship victories. Despite the legal disputes, Sun Day Red has maintained its growing presence in the golf world, with Woods showcasing the apparel during his recent TGL debut.
A TaylorMade representative, commenting on the ongoing trademark challenges, expressed confidence in the distinctiveness and protection of Sun Day Red’s branding. As the litigation unfolds, the outcome could have significant implications for trademark boundaries in the competitive sportswear market.
The Pinkney Foundation has initiated a heartfelt campaign following the theft of its cherished golf cart. This incident has brought to light a larger issue: the urgent need for safe and reliable transportation for young golf students in Oakland. With safety being a critical concern for students commuting to and from the facility, the Foundation is determined to address this challenge through a new fundraiser.
Campaign Goals
1. Replace the Stolen Golf Cart: The stolen golf cart was vital for providing short-distance rides to students and guests. The Foundation aims to replace it, ensuring continued accessibility and convenience within the facility.
2. Secure a 20-Passenger Van: Recognizing that many students face unsafe commutes across the city, the Foundation is working to raise funds for a 20-passenger van. This vehicle would provide a safe and reliable means of transportation for students attending Primetime Golf.
The Importance of This Initiative
Although Oakland is widely known for its football and basketball talent, many local youth have shown a keen interest in exploring golf. However, sustainable opportunities for participation are limited. Since 1998, Ace Kids Golf has been a trailblazer in providing young people with access to the game, fostering life skills like confidence, discipline, and teamwork.
Despite these efforts, only 14% of Oakland’s youth achieve the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, compared to the national average of 23%. By expanding access to quality sports programs, the transformative potential for these students is significant.
The Pinkney Foundation’s mission is to develop positive and productive citizens through youth development, life skills, and educational opportunities in sports, arts, and technology. Supporting this transportation initiative will ensure Ace Kids Golf continues to break down barriers and offer impactful programs.
How to Support
The Foundation is calling on the community to help raise $100,000. Each contribution will help provide safe transportation and empower Oakland’s youth to pursue their passion for golf in a secure environment. To learn more or to make a donation visit https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjIyNTU4 or https://www.thepinkneyfoundation.org or call 510-367-3001.
By Bob Denney, PGA Historian Emeritus
African American golf pioneers are the unsung “beacons” of change in an ancient game marked by a checkered past. My guess is those pioneers, had they been with us today, would take heart by spending an afternoon last August in a Marriott ballroom in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
The fourth African American Golf EXPO & Forum brought together vendors and personalities that vigorously campaign for expanding the current 8.9% Black or African American golfers in the United States.
This multi-billion dollar industry has a place for everyone, and especially fresh ideas. The campaign to “make the golf industry look like America” remains a work in progress, but there is plenty reason for hope.
You take 2009 Super Bowl Most Valuable Player Santonio Holmes, the former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver who tippy-toed to catch a winning touchdown on football’s biggest stage. Holmes is the co-founder of 10 All In, a company to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by incorporating education to kids about golf and help them develop emotional maturity.
Holmes greeted me like I was a long-lost teammate, and it made me feel he was genuine in his efforts to make his company one of impact.
About those pioneers, they include Dr. George Grant, a Boston dentist who patented the first wooden golf tee in 1899, and there’s John Shippen, son of a Black minister and the first American-born golf professional, who at age 16, finished fifth in the 1896 U.S. Open over the protests of several English and Scottish professionals in the field.
My guess is that both Dr. Grant and Mr. Shippen would be pleased to see programs like 10 All In, The First Tee, job opportunities and club connections with Club Car; to explore golfing destinations of Sweet Home Alabama.
Mr. Shippen, the PGA head professional at Shady Rest Country Club in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, would be pleased to see representatives from the Preserve Shady Rest Committee greeting visitors at the forum. They would learn more about the amazing legacy and support of the nation’s first Black country club.
My guess is anyone who passed by the table of Ebony Greens, and met Shawn Summerville, would be attracted to the wide-ranging golf apparel line based in Louisville, Kentucky.
Capping the EXPO and Forum, managed with ease by James Beatty of Omaha, Nebraska, was a luncheon featuring former PGA of America CEO Jim Awtrey, and Rhett Evans, the CEO of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).
Awtrey was the best spokesperson for the PGA during years of crises, and a catalyst of change during his 12 years at the PGA helm. One particular event put Awtrey and the PGA in the crosshairs of public opinion.
Awtrey masterfully handled the furor ahead of the 1990 PGA Championship at Shoal Creek Country Club in Birmingham, Alabama, where membership was closed to minorities. The PGA stepped up and Shoal Creek became the model for all future major championships to be conducted only at facilities with open membership.
Just over three months after he scaled Mount Everest, Rhett Evans delivered an emotional and spellbinding presentation. A mountaineer for more than 30 years, Evans spoke of the loss of three climbers who perished on the mountain. He repeated the words, “Lead out.”
Remember to “Don’t’ think you have time,” Evans said, and underscored messages on a screen that included a video of his climb. “I learned so much about life and who I am and what the human spirit is capable of.”
For those spending time at the African American Golf EXPO and Forum, it became an invaluable experience where one could walk away feeling a dose of passion beyond golf. We don’t have to scale the world’s tallest mountain to absorb such passion, but we can follow the inspiration of Black pioneers who boldly took that first step, accepted a challenge, and never looked back.
The 3rd edition of the AFRIYEA Golf Academy Parent and Child Championship was successfully held. The annual celebration brings together family, comraderie, and the love of golf. Designed to bring families onto the course, this event creates a unique opportunity for parents and children to bond through the shared experience of the game. Participants navigate the course together, learning from each other, building memories, and strengthening their connection through golf. The event also showcases the academy’s commitment to fostering community, promoting the values of family, and nurturing the next generation of golfers.
Based in Uganda, Africa, Afriyea Golf Academy is considered the number one golf Academy in the country. It was founded by Isaiah Mwesige after he notice that Uganda wasn’t developing professional golf talent. The club is Uganda’s largest golf academy, training children and youth to play golf. The academy’s programs include School Golf and Girls 4 Golf. The club is funded by the R&A and the Uganda Golf Union have provided equipment to support the academy’s youth programs.
The club instructors are experts at training youth and under aged children to play golf and learn of its benefits while gaining education and life skills. The golf club is raising up the next generation of golfers. Follow them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/afriyeagolfacademy/
Historic golf course seeks $1.5 million to install an irrigation system to ensure its future
Canton, Ohio (Aug. 23, 2024) – Clearview Golf Club announced today that the Clearview Legacy Campaign, a fundraising initiative aimed at securing the future of the historic and vital community resource, has secured more than $700,000 in commitments. The campaign seeks to raise a total of $1.5 million to fund the installation of a much-needed irrigation system, ensuring the sustainability and continued operation of Clearview Golf Club.
Clearview Golf Club, which was founded in 1946 by William “Bill” Powell as the only golf course in America built, owned and operated by an African American, is more than just a place to play golf. It is a sanctuary and a source of inspiration and support for youth, minorities, seniors, military veterans, those with mental and physical challenges and everyone who enjoys golf.
Clearview needs an irrigation system to continue Powell’s vision of improving lives through golf. Currently, Clearview maintains its greens with an antiquated piping system and manual watering while relying on rain to try to keep the tees and fairways playable.
“Our golf course has long played a crucial role in nourishing the future of these diverse groups, fostering a sense of community and personal growth through the game of golf,” said Renee Powell, PGA of America Hall of Famer, LPGA/PGA Professional and head golf professional at Clearview Golf Club. “Clearview is more than ‘America’s Course,’ it is a home for those who love golf and a sanctuary for those in need to be lifted up through the game of golf. However, without an irrigation system, it continues to be a challenge to maintain Clearview to the standard that my dad intended.
Help nourish Clearview
Donations to The Clearview Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, can make a significant difference. Donations are tax-deductible and come with exclusive benefits and recognition opportunities:
The Clearview Legacy Foundation Board of Directors, led by Andy Moock, invites you to be part of this vital campaign by donating today. With your support, Clearview Golf Club can continue to be a beacon of hope, resilience and community for generations to come.
For more information on how to donate and support Clearview Golf Club, visit www.clearviewgolfclub.com or email [email protected].
About Clearview Golf Club
Clearview Golf Club, founded in 1948 by William Powell, is the only course designed, built, owned and operated by an African American, Clearview was named a National Historic Site by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 2001. The golf course and its staff provide an inclusive environment where people from all walks of life can come together and enjoy the game of golf. Our mission is to offer a space that promotes physical activity, mental well-being, and community engagement. Today, Clearview is managed by his children Larry Powell, Superintendent, and Renee Powell, LPGA/PGA Head Golf Professional.
The African American Golf EXPO & Forum celebrates five successful years as it returns in 2025, this time coinciding with the prestigious PGA Show in Orlando, Florida. Reflecting on the journey, Michael Cooper, guest writer for the African American Golfer’s Digest and a passionate advocate for diversity in golf, shared his admiration for this milestone.
“Let us celebrate and not forget Jim Beatty’s courageous announcement made five years ago during the 2020 PGA Show, as we concluded the Diversity Roundtable session on Wednesday, January 22, at Orange County Convention Center, unfortunately, the COVID pandemic rocked the world 60-days later, delaying the inaugural Expo until August 2021. ” said an email by Michael Cooper.
Cooper stated, “Over 200 participants were present that day, and I imagine most didn’t take his announcement seriously. But now, we can applaud Jim’s vision and celebrate this joint collaboration with the PGA Show in Orlando. That’s a BIG DEAL!” The EXPO collaboration this year is historic event and such an program such as this has never been done before.
Cooper expressed gratitude for Beatty’s leadership, saying, “Thank you for your vision and courage, Jim, and for creating the Expo to showcase our love, dedication, and work in golf to a broader audience.”
Registration for the 2025 African American Golf EXPO & Forum is open now at https://aagolfexpo.com/registration
If a business’s primary duty is to understand its audience, the PGA Tour recognizes that its latest move won’t appeal to everyone. A partnership between the Tour and golf’s most prominent social media influencers might strike a portion of its core fanbase as jarring.
However, the PGA Tour is acutely aware of the challenges facing professional golf. From the rise of LIV Golf to declining TV viewership, the influx of external wealth, a homogenized player pool, and the absence of Tiger Woods, the sport is facing a shrinking audience after decades of growth.
To address this, the Tour has announced the launch of the “Creator Council,” partnering with seven influential golf content creators to bridge the gap between the sport and a digital-savvy audience. This partnership isn’t monetary but based on mutual benefits: influencers gain exclusive access to PGA Tour events and content opportunities, while the Tour leverages their reach and insights to connect with new fans.
The Creator Council includes major influencers like Bryan Bros Golf, Erik Anders Lang, Foreplay/Barstool Sports, Paige Spiranac, No Laying Up, Roger Steele, and Tisha Alyn, boasting a combined following of over 15 million.
“We want to learn from creators,” said the PGA Tour’s Scott Weitz. “We acknowledge areas where our voice can improve, and we see opportunities to co-create content that delivers more of what fans want. Sometimes, we’ll let creators take the lead on our platforms.”
The council will work closely with PGA Tour executives to shape fan engagement strategies, enhance content, and explore new broadcasting approaches, marking a step toward modernizing the Tour’s relationship with its evolving audience.
Jim Beatty, President of Jim Beatty Golf Ventures and Founder of the African American Golf EXPO and Forum announced today a special video partnership with the True Golf Network. “In January of 2025, the True Golf Network will have the great honor and opportunity of partnering with the African American Golf EXPO and Forum at the 5th year anniversary of the event, an unparalleled celebration of golf, culture, and community in Orlando, Florida from January 22-25th” according to True Golf Network founder, Antion Downs.
This partnership will provide the network with the opportunity to introduce itself to the community as well as providing the opportunity of assisting the EXPO with expanding its reach throughout the community and provide exposure for vendors and special guests. The collaboration will provide access to conversations about the emerging issues in the industry and introduce new and current golf products available to those who are not able to attend.
Those wishing to attend the EXPO at no cost should REGISTER HERE
About True Golf Network
Antion Downs is the CEO and Founder of the True Golf Network which he formed in November of 2024. The mission of the network is to continue to expose the African American community and people of color to the great game of golf through the video medium. The Network will celebrate the contributions of those before us as well as the contributions to the game by current and future leaders.
“Often times people in our community have no idea of the careers, accomplishments and educational opportunities that the golf industry can provide,” said Downs. “Careers paths include business professionals, medical professionals, marketing professionals, etc., as well as golf playing and teaching professionals,” Downs stated.
With this in mind the network will seek to cover, highlight and interview individuals and organizations involved in the grass roots efforts to grow golf, HBCU college golf programs and professional tours such as the APGA.. The network is based in Clarksburg, Maryland.
ABOUT THE EXPO
The mission of this event is to inform African Americans and all people of color about the jobs, careers, business and playing opportunities in the $102 Billion Golf Industry. History: The EXPO started in 2021 and has been held in Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC and Louisville, KY and Palm Beach, Fl.
2025 will mark the 5th year anniversary of the EXPO which is being held coincident with the PGA Show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. The EXPO is free for adults 18 and over to attend all exhibits, nightly networking sessions and the Jerry Tarde Courage awards ceremony Everyone must register. The EXPO Website is : https://aagolfexpo.com/registration Information is updated regularly.