A Premier Korn Ferry Tour Event
Introduction
The Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the Korn Ferry Tour, serving as a crucial stepping stone for aspiring PGA Tour players. Established in 2007, the event has been a defining moment in the careers of numerous professional golfers.
The tournament is part of the Korn Ferry Tour Finals, playing a critical role in determining which players earn PGA Tour cards for the following season. Over the years, it has gained a reputation for being one of the most challenging and pressure-packed tournaments on the developmental tour.
Understanding the Format of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship
The tournament follows a 72-hole stroke play format and is contested by a field of 156 players. The field consists of:
- The Top 75 players from the Korn Ferry Tour’s regular season standings.
- PGA Tour players ranked 126-200 in the FedExCup standings, seeking to regain their PGA Tour status.
- Additional spots filled through sponsor exemptions and tournament invitations.
A 36-hole cut reduces the field for the weekend rounds, ensuring that only the best performers have a shot at the title. The tournament plays a pivotal role in shaping the Korn Ferry Tour Finals standings, with players vying for a coveted PGA Tour card.
The Legendary Course of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship
Since its inception, the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship has been hosted at The Ohio State University Golf Club – Scarlet Course, one of the most revered collegiate golf courses in the United States.
Designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie and later restored by Jack Nicklaus, the 7,455-yard, par-71 course presents a true test of skill with:
- Narrow fairways that demand precision off the tee.
- Deep bunkers that punish wayward approach shots.
- Fast, undulating greens that challenge even the best putters.
The Scarlet Course has earned a reputation as one of the most challenging stops on the Korn Ferry Tour, separating elite players from the rest of the field.
Unforgettable Highlights in Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship History
This tournament has delivered numerous dramatic moments, including:
- 2013 – Seung-Yul Noh claimed victory, cementing his status as a future PGA Tour competitor.
- 2017 – Peter Uihlein delivered a dominant performance, showcasing his potential on the biggest stage.
- 2021 – Adam Svensson secured a crucial win, earning his PGA Tour promotion.
- 2023 – Grayson Murray captured the title with a thrilling final-round charge.
Recent Winners & Record Holders
🏆 Champions of the Last Decade
- 2023: 🏆 Grayson Murray – 269 (-15)
- 2022: 🏆 David Lingmerth – 265 (-19)
- 2021: 🏆 Adam Svensson – 267 (-17)
- 2020: 🏆 Curtis Thompson – 267 (-17)
- 2019: 🏆 Scottie Scheffler – 268 (-16)
- 2018: 🏆 Robert Streb – 270 (-14)
- 2017: 🏆 Peter Uihlein – 269 (-15)
Many past champions have gone on to win on the PGA Tour, reinforcing the significance of this event as a launchpad for future stars.
Golfing Icons & Their Triumphs at the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship
The Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship has been a proving ground for some of the most recognizable names in professional golf, including:
- Scottie Scheffler (2019 winner) – Later became a Masters champion and World No. 1.
- Adam Svensson (2021 winner) – Earned his PGA Tour card and established himself as a rising star.
- David Lingmerth (2022 winner) – Showed veteran consistency and resilience in securing his PGA Tour return.
Traditions & Trophies That Define the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship
Unlike major championships with longstanding traditions, this tournament is defined by opportunity and advancement. The trophy is a symbol of perseverance, and the top finishers earn their PGA Tour status, making the stakes incredibly high.
Beyond competition, the event supports Nationwide Children’s Hospital, with proceeds benefiting pediatric healthcare initiatives. This charitable mission adds another layer of significance to the championship.
Record-Breaking Moments & Fascinating Facts
- Lowest winning score – 265 (-19) by David Lingmerth in 2022.
- Most victories – Several players have won once, but no player has won multiple times.
- PGA Tour implications – More than 80% of winners have gone on to full-time PGA Tour careers.
- Course difficulty – The Scarlet Course consistently ranks among the toughest Korn Ferry Tour venues.
Why the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship Matters in Golf
This tournament is not just another Korn Ferry Tour event; it is the defining test for players on the brink of PGA Tour success. With a challenging course, an elite field, and a life-changing prize at stake, the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship remains one of the most significant developmental golf tournaments in the world.
By combining world-class competition, high stakes, and charitable impact, it continues to shape the future of professional golf while making a meaningful difference in the community.
