Are you as excited about this year’s RBC Heritage as we are? The Heritage is definitely one of the best annual events on Hilton Head – and it’s so much more than just a golf tournament.
Here are a few fun facts about the RBC Heritage, including how it got started and why it’s such a big deal to our little island:
1. RBC Heritage is the island’s BIGGEST annual event.
The last pre-pandemic tournament had an attendance of 135,000. It has a huge economic impact for Hilton Head, for Beaufort County and for South Carolina as a whole – it annually pumps $102 million into the S.C. economy. It also has contributed more than $47.5 million to charities throughout South Carolina and Georgia since 1987.
2. It’s more than just a golf tournament.
If you ask a local – or any regular attendee – they’ll tell you that RBC Heritage is also THE social event of the year. There’s a high emphasis on fashion at the Heritage – and there’s a lot more to do than just watch the golf tournament (there are food trucks, pop-up bars, exclusive clubs, etc.).
3. Many people credit the RBC Heritage for putting Hilton Head Island on the map.
The first tournament was held in 1969 – before the Sea Pines Resort was even finished. If you look at photos from that tournament, you’ll even notice that the infamous Harbour Town Lighthouse was still under construction!
4. This PGA Tour stop is many golfers’ favorite – and the ONLY annual PGA Tour stop in South Carolina.
5. The tournament has brought A LOT of famous golfers to Hilton Head.
The list of iconic golfers include Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, who both played in the first tournament. Other big names include: Nick Faldo, Hale Irwin, Bernhard Langer, Johnny Miller, Greg Norman, Nick Price, Tom Watson, Payne Stewart and Tiger Woods.
Everything from tickets to accommodations to a full event schedule can be found at rbcheritage.com.
