The South Carolina District qualifier will move to a new home in Arcadian Shores Golf Club in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in 2010.
Photo courtesy of Arcadian Shores Golf Club
The dates of the official Optimist qualifying tournaments have been finalized. In 2010, there will be 53 Optimist District qualifying tournaments in 34 states and five Canadian provinces. The Optimist District qualifying season kicks off in the South Florida District on March 29-30 with a qualifier for all age divisions at the International Links-Melreese Country Club in Miami, Florida. This new South Florida qualifier is being held in cooperation with The First Tee Miami-Dade Amateur Golf Association’s Spring Break Classic. Qualifying tournaments continue throughout April, May and June, with the majority taking place the last half of June. Many Districts also hold a series of local pre-qualifying tournaments that determine which golfers advance to the District finals.
Junior golfers who participate in Optimist District tournaments compete for the opportunity to qualify for the summer Optimist International Junior Golf Championships at PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. A set number of qualifying spots in each age division are granted to each District tournament.
In addition, each participating Optimist District will sponsor the first-place boy and girl winner in the 16-18 age division from their own District to the championships at PGA National Resort & Spa. This sponsorship includes the payment of championship registration fees (inclusive of practice round, tournament rounds, driving range & putting green privileges, five nights lodging, breakfast & dinner during the championships, and access to all Optimist-sponsored recreational activities and special events). Many Optimist Districts pay for transportation and incidental costs and may sponsor winners of other age divisions if funds allow.
Junior golfers who live in an Optimist District that offers an official qualifying tournament are required to participate in a District tournament to attempt to qualify for the Optimist International Junior Golf Championships. Golfers are encouraged to participate in their home District's event but may travel outside of their District if they choose.
Junior golfers who are interested in participating in a qualifying tournament should locate their District’s information on the Optimist International website and download an entry form (if available). Contact the District Chairperson listed for additional event details and questions. To view a master list of qualifying tournaments, click here.
