A field of star names will take part in a fun celebration of golf when the Heroes Classic is held for the first time on Tuesday July 14 during the 154th Open at Royal Birkdale.
Jordan Spieth and Pádraig Harrington, both winners of The Open at Royal Birkdale, will be joined by reigning AIG Women’s Open champion Miyu Yamashita, G4D champion Brendan Lawlor, Ryder Cup stars Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose, and high-profile figures from sport and entertainment including R&A ambassadors Bryan Habana and Kathryn Newton.
The event will celebrate the heroes of the sport – those who inspire millions of people around the world to play and get involved in golf – and highlight the work of The R&A in developing and promoting golf globally.
It will be contested in teams of three players over the first, second and ninth holes using a Texas scramble format with a scoring incentive to ensure each participant gets to hit as many shots as possible to create team unity and enable friendly competition.
Tommy Fleetwood said: “To be part of the first Heroes Classic at The Open is really exciting, especially at a championship that means so much to all of us as players. It should be a lot of fun and I think the fans are going to really enjoy seeing a different side of everyone involved. If we can create a memory that inspires someone to be involved in the game and dream big, that is a wonderful thing.”
Jordan Spieth said: “It’s special to come back to Royal Birkdale, this place means a lot to me and I’m looking forward to being part of something unique during Open week. The Heroes Classic will be a fun way to bring people together and give fans another great experience at one of the best weeks in golf. It’s great to see something new being added to The Open, and with Royal Birkdale being such an iconic venue and I’m excited to be involved.”
Justin Rose said: “I am really looking forward to taking part in the Heroes Classic. The Open at Royal Birkdale in 1998 was a really special moment for me and brings back so many fond memories, especially winning the Silver Medal as a young amateur. To return now, in a different stage of my career, is something I’m excited about. I’m looking forward to being back, reconnecting with the fans, and giving them something new to experience through the Heroes Classic.”
Pádraig Harrington said: “The Heroes Classic is a fantastic way for fans to experience a different side of The Open, and I’m really looking forward to being part of it. Royal Birkdale holds a special place in my heart, and this will showcase something new and exciting for spectators. It’s a great, family-friendly occasion, there are some great names taking part, and I hope it inspires everyone who comes along.”
