DES MOINES, Iowa (March 1, 2016) – The Principal Charity Classic presented by Well Fargo, an annual PGA TOUR Champions event focused on raising funds for Iowa children’s charities, is pleased to announce champion golfer and fan favorite John Daly has committed to play in the 2016 Principal Charity Classic, set for May 31-June 5 at Wakonda Club in Des Moines.
In 2016, The Principal® is celebrating the 10th Anniversary of its title sponsorship of the tournament, which has raised more than $7.7 million for charity in the past nine years and is set to be the must-see event of the summer in Des Moines.
Daly, who becomes eligible to compete in PGA TOUR Champions events after turning 50 on April 28, is one of the most recognizable players and colorful personalities in professional golf. He is known by many for his driving distance off the tee, which has earned him the nickname “Long John” and characterized his style of play as “grip it and rip it.”
“We are tremendously excited to welcome John Daly to Des Moines for the 2016 Principal Charity Classic,” said Greg Conrad, Principal Charity Classic Tournament Director. “His commitment certainly speaks to the quality of the event, which the Des Moines community has helped create, and is further evidence the Principal Charity Classic is considered a premier tournament by the players.”
The Principal Charity Classic has an annual estimated economic impact of $23 million on the greater Des Moines region and raised a record $1.4 million for charity in 2015.
“The Principal Charity Classic has been very successful in its mission of raising funds for charity and strengthening its community over the years,” Conrad said. “John Daly is someone who can help make an even bigger difference through his unique ability to reach new audiences and drive incredible excitement. He truly inspires people to engage in an event.
“We also believe our tournament is a great fit for John because he has been very committed to personally giving back to charity throughout his career, which is what the Principal Charity Classic is all about.”
Legendary Player
Daly famously won the first of his two major championships at the 1991 PGA Championship at Crooked Stick Golf Club after qualifying as the ninth and final alternate for the event. His three-stroke victory, which came during his first year on the PGA TOUR, was one of the most unforeseen results in golf history and helped earn him PGA TOUR “Rookie of the Year” honors.
Daly also won the 1995 Open Championship in a memorable four-hole playoff over Costantino Rocca, and was the PGA TOUR’s “Comback Player of the Year” in 2004 after winning the Buick Invitational that year.
‘Daly Deal’ For Fans
In recognition of Daly’s Principal Charity Classic commitment and his upcoming 50th birthday, fans can chip in for charity and save 50% on 2016 Principal Charity Classic Good-Any-One-Day tickets now through March 7 by using the promo code DALY when purchasing tickets online at www.principalcharityclassic.com.
As a reminder, kids 15 and under may attend the Principal Charity Classic for FREE if accompanied by a ticketed adult. Complimentary admission is also provided for all active duty, retired and reserve military along with their dependents.
For more information about the Principal Charity Classic, including volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.principalcharityclassic.com.
