News Summary
The Epson Tour officially kicks off its 2026 season with the Atlantic Beach Classic, held from March 5-7 at the Atlantic Beach Country Club in Florida. This tournament has become a staple since its introduction in 2024, providing aspiring female golfers the chance to compete for a prize purse of $250,000 and 500 Race Points. With a course measuring par 71 and 6300 yards, competitors will showcase their skills in an event that shapes the future of women’s golf, paving the way for the LPGA.
Epson Tour Kicks Off 2026 Season with Atlantic Beach Classic
Golf enthusiasts, mark your calendars because the 2026 Epson Tour season is officially teeing off with the exciting Atlantic Beach Classic! This much-anticipated tournament is set to unfold on the beautiful greens of a Florida golf course from March 5-7, ushering in a thrilling new year for aspiring female professional golfers.
Key Details of the Season Opener in Florida
The sunny shores of Florida will play host to this year’s Atlantic Beach Classic at the Atlantic Beach Country Club. Run from Thursday, March 5, through Saturday, March 7, this tournament has quickly become a beloved part of the Epson Tour since making its debut in 2024. With a prize purse of $250,000 and an impressive 500 Race Points up for grabs, this event is more than just a game—it’s a major step for golfers aiming to make their mark.
The course is a par 71, stretching around 6300 yards, ideal for challenging yet fun play. Competitors will be looking to showcase their skills on this well-loved layout, recently polished and prepped for a weekend full of action!
What is the Epson Tour’s Role?
The Epson Tour serves as the official developmental and qualifying tour for the prestigious Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA). Often lovingly referred to as the “Road to the LPGA,” its mission is clear: to shape and prepare the next generation of female golfers for the spotlight. By providing structured competition and vital exposure, the tour plays a crucial role in helping young professionals hone their skills and gain the experience needed to move up to the main tour.
Each year, the top performers in the “Race for the Card” standings earn coveted LPGA Tour status for the following season. The champions who secure a spot in the top ten can bask in the glory of full LPGA Tour membership, while those finishing from 11th to 15th receive conditional privileges to compete. It’s not just about the glory; it’s a serious stepping stone in a player’s career.
A History of Nurturing Golf Talent
As we dive into the 2026 season, we celebrate the 46th competitive season of this remarkable tour, which first made waves in 1981 as the Tampa Bay Mini Tour. The tour evolved through the years, transitioning into the Futures Tour in 1983 and being designated as the LPGA’s developmental circuit by 1999. In 2007, the LPGA fully acquired the tour, providing a strong foundation for future golf stars.
Over its storied history, the tour has seen several name transformations, influenced by sponsorship changes, including the Duramed Futures Tour from 2006 to 2010 and later the Symetra Tour from 2012 to 2021. In 2022, it was officially branded as the Epson Tour, solidifying its commitment to fostering female golf talent. Remarkably, over 600 alumnae have graduated from this pathway to the LPGA, with many becoming major champions and leading figures in the sport.
The Epson Tour consistently hosts 20 or more tournaments each season, with prize purses ranging from $200,000 to $400,000 per event, ensuring that every swing counts for those vying for a spot on the bigger stage.
Atlantic Beach Classic 2026 Event Details
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Atlantic Beach Classic |
| Tour | Epson Tour (Official Qualifying Tour for LPGA Tour) |
| Start Date | March 5, 2026 |
| End Date | March 7, 2026 |
| Location | Atlantic Beach, Florida |
| Course | Atlantic Beach Country Club |
| Purse | $250,000 |
| Race Points Offered | 500 |
| Course Par | 71 |
| Course Yardage | 6,300 yards |
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