The annual PGA Senior Tour tournament that has been part of the Utah golf scene for the past decade, will likely be moving to a new setting and taking a new name this year, the Deseret News has learned.
After 11 years at the Jeremy Ranch Golf Club, the Franklin Showdown Classic (formerly called Shootout at the Jeremy Ranch) is expected to move to Park Meadows Golf Club and be renamed the Franklin Quest Championship.Franklin Quest President Arlen Crouch and Friends of Utah Golf Secretary-Treasurer Patrick Shea confirmed the expected change Saturday although an official announcement will be made later. While a few details need to be worked out and nothing has been signed, the change looks almost certain to happen. "There's a very high chance we'll be at Park Meadows this year," said Shea.
On Thursday night the Park City Council approved the move to Park Meadows. And according to Shea, the Senior PGA Tour gave its approval to the move in early January.
"We're excited about it," said Crouch, whose company took over sponsorship of the popular tourney last year. "Park Meadows is the No. 1-rated golf course in the state."
Shea said the Park City Council approved the move "on a conditional basis, subject to the Friends of Utah Golf making final arrangements on parking and security."
One reason for the move is that Park Meadows is closer to Park City and may receive better local support. Another is that Park Meadows is more spectator- and player-friendly with its relatively flat terrain. Also each of the past two years Jeremy Ranch has had problems that have been stressful to the course as course officials scrambled to get it ready for the tournament. Park Meadows, with less traffic, shouldn't have such problems.
Jeremy Ranch head pro Jimmy Blair said his club has enjoyed hosting the Senior event, but he's not upset about losing the tournament, which began in 1982.
"I think it's good for everybody," said Blair. "The tournament needs a lift and to be re-energized. And Park Meadows is a great facility. I think it's a win-win situation for everyone."
This year's Franklin Quest Championship is scheduled for Aug. 13-15 and the purse will be increased from $450,000 to $500,000. Orville Moody is the defending champion.