News Summary
Golf fans can look forward to an exciting matchup at the Hayt Collegiate Invitational, hosted by the North Florida men’s golf team from March 9-11, 2024, at Sawgrass Country Club. The event is free to the public and features a competitive field, including five top-25 ranked teams. Expect thrilling performances and the finest collegiate golf as fans enjoy a vibrant atmosphere during this prestigious tournament.
Ponte Vedra Beach Gears Up for Exciting Golf Showdown
Golf enthusiasts, mark your calendars! The beautiful city of Ponte Vedra Beach will be buzzing with excitement as the North Florida men’s golf team gets set to host the prestigious Hayt Collegiate Invitational from March 9-11, 2024. This annual tournament has become a highlight on the collegiate golf calendar, and this year, it promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Free Fun for Everyone!
Are you a golf fan? Great news! The Hayt is free to the public, including parking, so you can come out to Sawgrass Country Club and soak up the atmosphere without spending a dime. The excitement kicks off early, with the first tee-off at 7:30 a.m., featuring a shotgun start from both the first and 10th holes. Get ready for a thrilling three-day event with 54 holes of intense competition awaiting all participants!
Top Teams in Action
Golf fans will be treated to watching some of the best talent in collegiate golf. This year’s field includes an impressive lineup of teams, with five ranked in the top 25 according to the latest Clippd Rankings. Expect to see heavy hitters like:
- No. 1 North Carolina
- No. 13 Virginia
- No. 21 Alabama
- No. 23 Duke
- No. 25 North Florida
Other participating teams include South Florida, Louisville, Charlotte, Coastal Carolina, Jacksonville, Liberty, UTSA, and UCF, who will be competing in The Hayt for their fourth consecutive year. UCF’s first tee time is set for 8:40 a.m. on Saturday, March 9, and fans can cheer them on as they strive to improve on last year’s sixth-place finish.
A Tradition of Excellence
The Hayt Collegiate Invitational holds a venerable place in collegiate golf, recognized as one of the premier events of the season. Often referred to as the first collegiate major, it has evolved since its inception, initially known as the Queen’s Harbor Intercollegiate before becoming the Mercedes-Benz Collegiate Championship. In 2007, it was renamed to honor UNF supporter John Hayt, further enhancing its prestige.
The tournament has been hosted at Sawgrass Country Club since 2000, a facility renowned for its 5-Star Platinum Club status and has even hosted The Players Championship in the past. Its picturesque course is sure to provide a captivating backdrop as teams compete for glory.
An Exciting Week for Golf
Adding to the excitement, The Hayt will take place during the same week as the PGA Tour’s Players Championship, scheduled for March 12-13. The strong support from the PGA Tour helps elevate the event’s profile, and participants from the Hayt will have opportunities to engage in activities related to the Players Championship. Notably, tours of the PGA Tour Global Home are on the agenda, so budding golfers can get a taste of life on the professional circuit.
Spotlighting Future Stars
The Hayt is a crucial showcase for collegiate golfers on the PGA Tour University rankings. Among the competitors will be UNF’s talented Nick Gabrelcik, currently ranked third in the PGA Tour U rankings. Each year, players in the tournament often find success in their transition to professional levels, and this year’s field includes several players already ranked in the top 50 of the Spikemark rankings.
Expectations Are High!
The anticipation surrounding the Hayt is palpable, as coaches and fans eagerly await the stellar performances from these rising golf stars. The North Florida team has not finished lower than fifth in any of their last eight tournaments this season, with Gabrelcik and Higgins each clinching victories in spring events. Expectations are high, and the course is primed for spectacular play as collegiate golf blends seamlessly with the PGA Tour’s significant events.
So, whether you’re a die-hard golf fan or just looking for a fun day out, make sure to come down to Sawgrass Country Club during March 9-11 and experience the thrill of collegiate golf at its finest. It’s sure to be an unforgettable event!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
UNF Men’s Golf Team Clinches First Title at World Golf Village
Additional Resources
- UNF Ospreys: Men’s Golf Preview 2024 The Hayt
- Wikipedia: Golf tournament
- UNF Ospreys: The Hayt Collegiate Tournament
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
- UCF Knights: Men’s Golf Set for The Hayt
- Google News: Hayt Collegiate Invitational
- Jacksonville.com: Hayt 30 UNF Tennessee LSU Lead Field
