New date set for annual Watson Challenge golf tournament in Kansas City

A new date has been set for the 2020 Watson Challenge golf tournament.

Officials announced Friday that the annual event to determine the best golfer in the Kansas City area is now scheduled for August 4-6 at The National Golf Club of Kansas City.

Namesake Kansas City golf legen Tom Watson plays each year in the event, which was originally scheduled for May 29-31 but was postponed because of the novel coronavirus.

“This was a very difficult decision, but we felt with the current, ongoing health crisis, it was not in the best interest of the players, club, staff and volunteers to continue with the event in May,” tournament director Doug Habel said in a statement.

Organizers cautioned that more changes could be made if health concerns dictate that it would not be advisable to hold the tournament in August.

“The Watson Challenge is one of the premier golf events in the Kansas City area, and it’s our intention to explore all possible options to still play the event this year in a safe way for all involved,” Habel said.

This is the first year the event has been completely postponed since its inception in 2007. Watson and 47 other golfers were scheduled to compete.

Officials announced in February that the winner would earn a spot in the 2021 KC Golf Classic — an event on the Korn Ferry Tour, which players use to qualify for the PGA Tour.