May 10–In my generation, they used to say Coke adds life.
Now, it’s going to add life to the Sunny King Charity Classic. After years as a Pepsi event, the largest charity golf tournament in the Southeast will be serving Coca-Cola products to its participants and supporters. It stands to be the biggest change to the event, which has been exceptionally consistent through the years. “Let me first say we were under no circumstances unhappy with Buffalo Rock (the Pepsi distributor),” said Brad Williams, the 2009 tournament chairman. “They were a great partner and big supporter of our tournament. “Coke has been really enthused to come on board. They’re real proud to be involved, and we’re excited to have them. You’re going to see them shown pretty heavily at the courses. I think it’s going to be a good marriage with them.” Tournament officials don’t discuss the values of their contracts. The partnership with Coke is a multi-year deal. This year’s Classic will be held July 10-12 at Anniston Country Club (best ball), Cider Ridge Golf Club (scramble) and Cane Creek Golf Course (scramble). Entry fee is $600 per team. Ott Chandler and Marcus Harrell are the defending champions. Information cards were distributed through the tournament’s mailing list on Friday. Entry forms will be available on the tournament’s Web site starting May 15.
As usual, even in these tough economic times, tournament officials expect the field to fill quickly. They also expect to raise another six-figure amount for the local charities the event supports.