A Historic PGA Tour Classic
Introduction
The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches is a prestigious event on the PGA Tour, annually held at the PGA National Resort’s Champion Course in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Established in 1972, this tournament has become one of the most respected stops on the tour, known for its challenging layout, deep field, and high-stakes competition.
Previously known as the Honda Classic, the tournament rebranded in 2023, continuing its legacy with a new title sponsor. It remains a crucial early-season event that sets the tone for the Florida Swing and the FedExCup race.
History of the Cognizant Classic
Origins and Evolution
The event debuted in 1972 as the Jackie Gleason Inverrary Classic and has undergone various sponsorship changes over the decades.
- 1982: Became the Honda Classic, a title it retained for over four decades.
- 2023: Cognizant took over as the title sponsor, marking a new era for the tournament.
- The event has been held at PGA National Resort since 2007, cementing the course’s reputation as one of the most challenging on the tour.
The Cognizant Classic is deeply tied to the South Florida golf scene, boasting a rich history of dramatic finishes and legendary champions.
Tournament Format
The Cognizant Classic follows a standard PGA Tour stroke play format over 72 holes (four rounds):
- Field: Approximately 144 players
- Cut Line: The top 65 players and ties advance to the weekend rounds
- Prize Fund: $9.2 million, with the winner’s share at $1.656 million
- FedExCup Points: 500 points awarded to the champion
- Course Par & Yardage: Par-70, 7,125 yards
The event serves as an important stepping stone for players aiming to qualify for The Masters and other major championships.
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The Course: PGA National Resort’s Champion Course
Course Design & Layout
Designed by Tom and George Fazio in 1981 and later redesigned by Jack Nicklaus, the Champion Course is one of the most formidable courses on the PGA Tour. Its key features include:
- The “Bear Trap” (Holes 15-17) – One of the most difficult three-hole stretches in professional golf.
- Water hazards on 16 holes, requiring exceptional precision.
- Bermuda grass fairways and greens, making putting particularly tricky.
This challenging layout tests every aspect of a golfer’s game, rewarding accuracy, strategy, and resilience.
🏆 Recent Champions
2025: Joe Highsmith
- Score: 265 (-19)
- Winning Margin: 2 strokes
- Key Highlights: His win earned him a spot in The Masters and the PGA Championship.
2024: Austin Eckroat
- Score: 264 (-16)
- Winning Margin: 3 strokes
- Key Highlights: Earned his first PGA Tour win with a wire-to-wire victory, handling the tough conditions brilliantly.
2023: Chris Kirk
- Score: 270 (-14)
- Winning Margin: Playoff victory
- Key Highlights: Defeated Eric Cole in a thrilling playoff to secure his first PGA Tour victory in nearly eight years.
2022: Sepp Straka
- Score: 270 (-10)
- Winning Margin: 1 stroke
- Key Highlights: Became the first Austrian to win on the PGA Tour, holding off Shane Lowry in a rain-soaked finish.
2021: Matt Jones
- Score: 268 (-12)
- Winning Margin: 5 strokes
- Key Highlights: Dominated the tournament with a 9-under 61 in Round 1, leading wire-to-wire for an emphatic win.
2020 Champion: Sungjae Im
- Score: 274 (-6)
- Winning Margin: 1 stroke
- Key Highlights: Earned his first PGA Tour victory, holding off Mackenzie Hughes and Tommy Fleetwood in a dramatic Sunday finish.
Memorable Moments
Legendary Finishes & Iconic Performances
- 2023: Chris Kirk defeated Eric Cole in a playoff, marking his first win in nearly eight years.
- 2022: Sepp Straka outplayed Shane Lowry in a dramatic rain-soaked final round.
- 2018: Tiger Woods made a run at the title, thrilling fans with a vintage performance.
- 2007: Mark Wilson won the first edition of the event at PGA National, surviving a four-man playoff.
The event’s unpredictable nature has produced some of the most unforgettable moments in golf history.
Significance of the Cognizant Classic
The Cognizant Classic is a key PGA Tour event for multiple reasons:
- Crucial FedExCup Points – Helps players secure a place in the Tour Championship
- Gateway to The Masters – A win here earns an invitation to Augusta National
- Showcase for Rising Stars – Many young talents have claimed their first Tour victory here
- Strong Charity Ties – Millions have been raised for Children’s Healthcare Charities
As one of the Florida Swing’s marquee tournaments, it remains a must-watch event every season.
Conclusion
The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches is more than just another stop on the PGA Tour—it’s a true test of skill and mental fortitude. The Champion Course at PGA National has humbled many of the world’s best golfers while also providing a platform for breakthrough victories and legendary finishes.
With its rich history, challenging layout, and high stakes, the Cognizant Classic continues to be a tournament that defines champions and produces unforgettable moments year after year.
