ORLANDO, Florida – The United Golfers Association is excited to announce the celebration of its centennial founding. Since its establishment in 1925, the UGA has been a driving force for inclusivity in the sport of golf. The UGA has played a crucial role in promoting golf among African Americans and providing a platform for competition and growth.
This significant event will commemorate a hundred years of diversity, talent, and achievement in golf. As part of this historic occasion, the organization’s annual invitational golf event will be renamed the UGA Invitational in honor of the legacy of the National Championships from 1926 to 1976.
In 2025, UGA will host the UGA Invitational at the prestigious Innisbrook Resort in Tampa, Florida from Feb. 14-16. This event is not just a tournament; it’s a tribute to the past, present, and future of African American golfers.
The excitement this year is undeniable as junior golfers compete again for the UGA Invitational title, while top HBCU collegiate players battle for the first-ever Legacy Cup. Plus, the Women’s Pro Tour field will be returning, highlighting eight amazing Black women who play on the many tours from the US, Caribbean and Africa.
Committed to fostering the next generation of golfers, UGA will award college scholarships to deserving graduating seniors and player development grants to the winners in the junior divisions. These awards are a testament to the UGA’s dedication to nurturing young talent and providing pathways to success.
The centennial celebration will also honor the legends of Black golf, including Ted Rhodes, Lee Elder, Renee Powell, Charlie Sifford, Ann Gregory, Althea Gibson, Jim Dent, Jim Thorpe, and James Black who honed their skills on the UGA circuit. In a heartfelt tribute, the children of some of these and other late golf icons will be invited to accept awards on their behalf, ensuring that their legacies continue to inspire and influence the game.
Join us as we celebrate this momentous 100th anniversary, a testament to the UGA’s enduring impact on the sport of golf. As we celebrate this milestone we reaffirm our commitment to the rich heritage and promising future of Black golf. More than a competition, the UGA Invitational celebrates history, diversity, and the love of the game.
For more information about the UGA’s centennial celebration and the UGA Invitational, please visit www.ugainvitational.com and www.unitedgolfersassociation.org for United Golfers Association.