The divine outdoors of the Missouri Ozarks are about to be on display to the world.
Not because of fishing or hunting, but because of golf. The Big Cedar Legends of Golf event is taking place June 2-8, with the actual tournament being held June 6-8. With many of the biggest names the game of golf has ever known visiting Missouri, the exposure should introduce golf fans across the country to the incredible scenery and outdoor opportunities that exist in the Missouri Ozarks.
"This world-class sporting event will elevate Missouri's status as a premier outdoor destination and shine an international spotlight on the rich variety of outdoor activities visitors to our state can enjoy; from hiking and hunting, to floating and fishing," Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon said.
For more than seven years, Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris has been working with legendary golfers to design a world-class golf complex. The resulting Par-3 Top of the Rock course and the 18-hole Buffalo Ridge Course are now complete and ready to draw outdoor recreation tourists to Missouri. Top of the Rock is a nature-based heritage preserve.
"Top of the Rock offers a one-of-a-kind experience and I'm very proud that I had the opportunity to work closely alongside golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Arnie Palmer and many other talented Ozarks craftsmen to create something special for golfers everywhere," Morris said. "More and more, people are becoming aware of all our beautiful Ozarks region has to offer including world-class fishing, nature and golf."
Buffalo Ridge highlights fields of native grasses and free-ranging buffalo relocated from nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. Hitting your ball next to a bull creates a whole new kind of hazard.
Placing Missouri in the national spotlight like this will hopefully draw outdoor enthusiasts from around the country to experience all the Ozarks have to offer. When they see the scenery, hopefully they'll research and learn our magnificent reservoirs and rivers are teeming with fish and our beautiful mountains are flush with wildlife.
"Home to a rich array of outdoor recreational opportunities, Missouri is the ideal location for this world-class competition," Gov. Nixon said. "We look forward to hosting Champions Tour players and fans and showcasing Missouri's many attractions during this outstanding event."
Conservation in Missouri has a rich history. Less than a century ago, the forests, fish and wildlife of the Ozarks were decimated. Today, thanks to the efforts of past and present conservationists, our state is a premiere outdoors destination.
"We thank Johnny Morris, Governor Nixon, and MasterCard for their support of this popular event and are excited to present a refreshing new concept to our players and fans," PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem said.
Attendees can expect to see many World Golf Hall of Fame members participating in the event, including Nicklaus, Watson, Hale Irwin, Gary Player and Lee Trevino.
Tickets to The Big Cedar Lodge Legends of Golf presented by Bass Pro Shops are on sale. Bass Pro Shops and Big Cedar Lodge are offering free tickets to current and former members of our Armed Forces and their spouses. In addition, youth 17 and younger are free with an accompanying ticketed adult. For more information, visit bigcedarlegends.com.
See you down the trail ...
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Brandon Butler is an outdoors columnist for the News Tribune. Contact him at [email protected].