The inaugural Simmons Bank Championship presented by Stephens, held in October at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Little Rock, was the winner of the 2024 Players Award at the PGA Tour’s annual tournament meetings.
Part of the PGA Tour Champions Tournament, the event marked the first PGA-affiliated pro men’s tournament in Arkansas. The Players Award goes to the tournament that PGA Tour Champions players voted as their favorite event. The award represents recognition for a tournament that goes above and beyond in the experience they provide to PGA TOUR Champions players, according to a PGA press release. The Simmons Championship represents just the second time a first-year event has won the Players Award.
The annual tournament meetings were held in Orlando on Dec. 10. Other winners were the Principal Charity Classic, 2024 President’s Award; Chubb Classic presented by SERVPRO, Sales Award; and Lisa Arvidson, Insperity Invitational, Volunteer of the Year.
In its release, the PGA noted highlights from the Simmons Championship while commending the course and how the event was run:
- The buildout around the property was top-tier, beginning with the entrance and extending to hospitality and fan enhancements around the course. Viewing areas for fans were extensive, with numerous public bleacher options and dedicated kid’s viewing areas, which were needed due to the large crowds on-site, supporting the tournament and enhancing the playoff atmosphere of the event.
- Simmons Bank executives, led by Chairman George Makris, serve on the tournament board and help drive the vision for the event, impacting hospitality, sales and community engagement. The engagement and commitment from George and the entire Simmons executive team was evident to PGA TOUR Champions membership.
- The Player Hospitality Committee ensured our players were well cared for throughout the week, handling everything from registration and transportation to local restaurant recommendations and serving in a concierge role, which elevated the player experience.
- Player amenities included Lexus courtesy vehicles, a dinner at the Governor’s Mansion and a special outing for player wives. Additionally, both the player and caddie received a winner’s trophy and necklaces were presented to the wives of both the player and the winning caddie. Complimentary hotels were also provided for all caddies.
- Pleasant Valley Country Club played a key role in welcoming our players and caddies, offering a brand-new clubhouse, first-class locker rooms, and excellent food, all complemented by an attentive staff. Players provided tremendous feedback on the quality of the golf course, ranking it as one of the top venues on the PGA TOUR Champions.
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