The stage is being set – literally – for the return of PGA Tour-level golf when the PGA Tour Champions Ally Challenge presented by McLaren commences September 10-16 at the famed Warwick Hills Golf & Country Club in Grand Blanc.
A major fan highlight will be the Friday evening concert, starring Grammy Award-winning country music duo Big & Rich, at the course directly following the first round of golf competition. Concert admission is included for any person with a ticket or pass for golf on Friday (week-long ticket or daily).
Many tournament reps have indicated the wild and wacky traditions that took place surrounding the No. 17 par 3 hole each year at the former Buick Open are to be anticipated for this inaugural Champions event.
“The tournament will build on the legacy of professional golf at this historic venue where so many of the game’s greats have competed,” said tournament director Chris Coffman. “Case in point, the famed 17th hole at Warwick Hills will once again provide an electric atmosphere and serve as a destination for fans to gather and cheer on the PGA TOUR Champions stars.”
“We’re excited to give our fans some star power outside of the ropes when country music duo Big & Rich take the stage. The combination of world class golf and award-winning entertainment will make for an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.” 
Charities Benefit:
Other optional events include the Adidas 5K Challenge, a run/walk event that will take place on Saturday, September 15, prior to the second round of competition. The race is a fundraiser that will benefit the tournament’s two primary charities; Community Foundation of Greater Flint and Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan.
Overall and age division winners of the Adidas 5K will be recognized at The Ally Challenge throughout the second round on official tournament scoreboards. Registration is now open at theallychallenge.com/adidas-5k-challenge. Race participants will receive an official Adidas 5K Challenge-themed Technical Race Shirt, an official Adidas 5K Challenge-themed finishers bracelet and a Saturday ticket to the golf tournament.
The Birdies for Charity program is a grassroots extension of the tournament’s mission to positively impact non-profit organizations in the greater Flint area. Birdies for Charity allows additional charities not connected to the tournament to get involved and benefit from the philanthropic objectives of The Ally Challenge.
Each eligible 501(C) (3) charity will solicit pledges per birdie, or flat donations, to their organization through the Birdies for Charity program and will receive 100% of collected donations, as well as a guaranteed 6% bonus match. For more information about Birdies for Charity and how to participate visit www.theallychallenge.com/charity
In related news, Midnight Golf Program has been named the charity benefactor for The Ally Challenge Monday Pro-am located at Meadowbrook Country Club, on September 10. Midnight Golf consists of a 30-week empowerment and mentoring experience that teaches life skills, college preparation, community activism, financial literacy and how to play golf.
Register to win FOUR 3-day tickets to the Ally Challenge in Grand Blanc. Simply visit: www.michigangolfjournal.com
