News Summary
Golf fans are eagerly anticipating the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, taking place from February 26 to March 1, 2026. This prestigious tournament on the PGA Tour will be hosted at the Champion Course at PGA National Resort & Spa, featuring a substantial purse of $9.6 million. Over 100 professional golfers will compete over 72 holes, with Joe Highsmith defending his title. The course, known for its challenges, including ‘The Bear Trap,’ promises an exciting experience for players and spectators alike.
Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches Set to Tee Off Next Week
Mark your calendars golf fans! The Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, a top-notch event on the PGA Tour calendar, is just around the corner. Kicking off from February 26 to March 1, 2026, this exciting tournament will be held at the stunning Champion Course at PGA National Resort & Spa. With a whopping $9,600,000 purse up for grabs, there’s no doubt that this will be a marquee stop during the PGA Tour’s swing through Florida.
What Are the Key Details of This Year’s Cognizant Classic?
Over 100 professional golfers are expected to take to the course as they battle it out over 72 holes. Joe Highsmith, who joyously claimed his first PGA Tour title last year, is all set to defend his champion status. The stakes are high as the winner will not only snag a generous portion of that massive purse but will also walk away with 500 FedExCup points and a prized two-year exemption on the PGA Tour.
Insights into the Tournament Venue and Course Challenges
Now, let’s talk about the venue! The Champion Course is known for its tricky yet exciting design. Originally created by the talented brothers Tom and George Fazio, it received a facelift from golf legend Jack Nicklaus in 2014. Golfers will definitely need to keep their wits about them while tackling something known as “The Bear Trap.” This notoriously challenging three-hole stretch made up of holes 15-17 is infamous for testing even the top-tier pros. The entire course spans 7,223 yards and plays as a par 71 — perfect for creating nail-biting moments!
Is a Notable Player Expected to Miss the Event?
In a bit of news that might surprise some fans, Rory McIlroy, one of the biggest names in golf, is planning to skip the 2026 Cognizant Classic. It seems he’s prioritizing his preparation for the upcoming Masters at Augusta National Golf Club, where he will be defending his title in April. Fingers crossed, fans will get to see him back in action soon!
Understanding the Event’s Historical Context
The Cognizant Classic boasts a long and colorful history, having first been launched in 1972 under the name “Jackie Gleason’s Inverrary Classic.” Over decades, the tournament has undergone many fascinating transformations with different title sponsors. From 1982 to 2023, it charm was known as The Honda Classic before Cognizant stepped in as the new title sponsor late last year. Since 2007, the Champion Course has proudly served as the home for this renowned tournament, making it a beloved event for players and fans alike.
Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches 2026: Key Event Details
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches |
| Dates | February 26 – March 1, 2026 |
| Location | Palm Beach Gardens, Florida |
| Course | Champion Course at PGA National Resort & Spa |
| Purse | $9,600,000 |
| Tour Affiliation | PGA Tour |
| Defending Champion | Joe Highsmith |
| Course Architect (Original) | Tom and George Fazio |
| Course Redesign | Jack Nicklaus (2014) |
| Notable Course Feature | “The Bear Trap” (Holes 15-17) |
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
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