For first time, Tom Watson won’t play in the annual Watson Challenge. It’s in August
Tom Watson won’t be playing this year, but his namesake Watson Challenge will go on.
Originally slated for May but rescheduled because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Watson Challenge will now take place Aug. 4-6 at the National Golf Club of Kansas City.
Watson, 70, is having shoulder surgery that will keep him from seeking a sixth Watson Challenge title. It’s the first time he’ll miss the event. The beloved Kansas City native is one of golf’s living legends, with scores of championships under his belt.
Tournament director Doug Habel of Central Links Golf said organizers are continuing to monitor the pandemic and will make changes as necessary to the event.
Spectators will be limited to National Golf Club members, tournament sponsors and five guests per player, according to a Friday news release.
“The Watson Challenge is one of the premier golf events in the Kansas City area, and it’s our intention to keep players, spectators, volunteers and staff safe,” he said.
Two-time winner and 2019 Kansas Amateur champion Andy Spencer and defending champion Alex Springer are among the field expected to compete.
Watson started the Watson Challenge to determine the best player in the greater KC golf community. The Watson Challenge typically features a field of 48 players — the best pros and amateurs living in Kansas City. The First Tee of Greater Kansas City is the beneficiary of the tournament’s annual proceeds.
This story was originally published June 26, 2020 at 10:59 AM.