Where Future GOATs Are Forged
Introduction
The Panama Championship is one of the most anticipated tournaments on the Korn Ferry Tour, providing aspiring golfers a crucial opportunity to secure their spot on the PGA Tour. Held at the prestigious Club de Golf de Panamá, the event has a rich history of dramatic finishes, career-defining performances, and an unforgettable atmosphere. Since its inception, the championship has become a proving ground for emerging talent, attracting a global audience of golf enthusiasts and industry professionals.
A Storied Legacy: The History of the Panama Championship
The Panama Championship was established in 2004 as part of the Nationwide Tour, which later evolved into the Korn Ferry Tour. The event has been a pivotal stepping stone for many players who went on to achieve success at the highest levels of professional golf. The championship is renowned for its challenging course conditions, with firm greens, narrow fairways, and unpredictable tropical weather adding to the difficulty.
Over the years, it has produced numerous champions who later made their mark on the PGA Tour, such as Tony Finau, Michael Sim, and Brice Garnett.
Understanding the Format of the Panama Championship
The Panama Championship follows a 72-hole stroke play format, adhering to the standard structure seen in Korn Ferry Tour events. The field consists of 156 players, all vying for a substantial purse and valuable Korn Ferry Tour points that can secure their PGA Tour cards.
- Cut Line: The field is trimmed after 36 holes, with the top 65 players and ties advancing to the weekend rounds.
- Prize Money: The tournament offers a significant prize pool, with the winner earning both financial rewards and a major boost in the Korn Ferry Tour rankings.
- Venue & Course: Played at Club de Golf de Panamá, the course is known for its tight fairways, small greens, and strong coastal winds that test every aspect of a golfer’s game.
The Legendary Course of the Panama Championship
The Club de Golf de Panamá, located in Panama City, Panama, is a historic venue that has hosted the Panama Championship since its inception. Established in 1922, it is one of Latin America’s oldest and most prestigious golf courses.
Key Features of the Course
- Par 70 layout that demands precision and accuracy.
- Tree-lined fairways and strategic bunkering create a true test for competitors.
- Signature holes include the challenging par-4 10th hole, where water hazards and tricky greens often dictate the tournament’s outcome.
Unforgettable Highlights in Panama Championship History
The Panama Championship has witnessed numerous thrilling moments, including:
- 2009: Fran Quinn won in dramatic fashion, shooting a final-round 64 to claim victory.
- 2016: Ryan Armour secured his first professional win, a victory that propelled him onto the PGA Tour.
- 2020: Davis Riley emerged victorious after a tense playoff, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this event.
Recent Winners & Record Holders
🏆 Champions of the Last Five Years
- 2023: Ben Kohles – 266 (-14)
- 2022: Brandon Matthews – 268 (-12)
- 2021: Davis Riley – 270 (-10)
- 2020: Carl Yuan – 272 (-8)
- 2019: Michael Gligic – 269 (-11)
Golfing Icons & Their Triumphs at the Panama Championship
Several past winners have gone on to achieve notable success in their careers, including:
- Tony Finau – Became a multiple-time PGA Tour winner.
- Brice Garnett – Earned his PGA Tour card after his success in Panama.
- Ryan Armour – Built on his Panama Championship victory to secure his first PGA Tour win.
Traditions & Trophies That Define the Panama Championship
One of the standout traditions of the Panama Championship is its champion’s toast, where the winner celebrates their victory with local dignitaries and tournament officials. The event is also known for its exclusive winner’s medal, awarded alongside the traditional trophy.
Record-Breaking Moments & Fascinating Facts
- Lowest winning score: Denny McCarthy (265, -15) in 2018.
- Biggest comeback: Scottie Scheffler, who overcame a five-shot deficit in the final round.
- Most difficult hole: The par-4 12th, which consistently ranks among the hardest holes on the Korn Ferry Tour.
Why the Panama Championship Matters in Golf
As one of the premier international stops on the Korn Ferry Tour, the Panama Championship serves as a vital proving ground for aspiring PGA Tour professionals. The tournament’s challenging conditions and rich history make it a true test of skill, endurance, and mental fortitude.
For golf fans, the Panama Championship offers a chance to witness the future stars of the PGA Tour before they reach their peak. Whether you’re a seasoned golf enthusiast or a casual viewer, this event is one to watch every year.
