The LPGA and Xanterra announced Tuesday a four-year extension of the Kingsmill Championship that will bring the event back to the Kingsmill Resort through 2017.
The news became official less than a week after it was reported Kingsmill and LPGA were nearing an agreement to bring championship golf back to Williamsburg.
The 10th staging of the Kingsmill Championship will be held May 15 through 18, when many of the world’s top golfers will compete for a $1.3 million purse on Kingsmill’s River Course.
“Everything about Kingsmill is top-notch; from the incredible resort, to the championship River Course venue, to the way [Kingsmill] treats both the players and fans,” LPGA Commissioner Michael Whan said in a news release. “I’m so excited about our long-term partnership, as it ensures that we’ll continue this wonderful tradition of showcasing the best golfers in the world at one of the best golf resorts in the world.”
Previously known as the Michelob ULTRA Open at Kingsmill, the tournament made an annual stop in Williamsburg from 2003 to 2009 before Kingsmill was sold to InBev. It returned in 2012 after the resort was sold to Xanterra Parks and Resorts and has produced some of the more memorable moments in tournament history.
A record-setting turnout watched Jiyai Shin fire a record-setting round during the first round of the tournament’s return in 2012. Shin would later claim the championship after outlasting Paula Creamer in an epic nine-hole playoff that carried over into Monday.
Last year’s event also ended in a playoff after Cristie Kerr defeated Suzann Pettersen on the second sudden death playoff hole.
“We are very excited to continue our partnership with the LPGA at Kingsmill,” said Andrew Todd, President and CEO of Xanterra Parks and Resorts. “This is the 32nd year of professional golf at Kingsmill, and Xanterra is proud to be a part of this prestigious tournament. We are thankful to the sponsors, volunteers, spectators, and LPGA players who continue to support this tradition at Kingsmill and make it a truly great event.”
Wayne Nooe, Kingsmill’s director of golf, said a four-year agreement best suited both parties involved.
“We were looking for longevity because of how important this event is to our community, and the LPGA wanted a longer extension so they can ensure it’s on their schedule,” Nooe said. “It’s pretty exciting. Professional golf has meant so much to Kingsmill over the years, so we’re proud to host it and hope everyone is as excited as we are.”
Nooe added that the search for a title sponsor continues, but said Kingsmill is prepared to cover the costs as it has each of the past two years since the tournament returned in 2012.
“But the goal is still to find one,” he said.
Tickets for next May’s event will go on sale next month, and can be purchased on the tournament’s homepage.
