Zurich Classic Offers Refreshing Format

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is the PGA Tour’s annual equivalent of finding $10 in a pair of jeans you haven’t worn in months. It’s a nice little treat, even if it doesn’t last long.

The Zurich became the PGA Tour’s first two-man team event since 1981 when it changed formats in 2017, giving fans a reprieve from the individual stroke play routine. Instead, the Zurich has opted for two rounds of Four-ball (the first and third) and two rounds of Foursomes, also known as Alternate Shot (the second and fourth), giving fans a little something different to consume. It doesn’t hurt that the fan-favorite Ryder Cup employs both formats.

After the 2020 Zurich Classic was canceled due to COVID, the tournament returns to TPC Louisiana in Avondale, Louisiana, where it has been contested since 2005.

The 2024 Zurich Classic is April 25-28, and offers a $8,900,000 purse.

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is well known for its charitable contributions. Since 1958, those contributions have been channeled through the Fore!Kids Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose stated mission is “Helping Kids Through Golf”.

The organization raises money throughout the year through events like charitable golf tournaments, a kid’s summer junior tour and the Golf Ball Gala. However, the bulk of the Foundation’s funding comes through the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, where all profits go to the organization. Together, Fore!Kids has raised over $30 million dollars to provide healthcare, education and other necessities to New Orleans area children.

The money raised by the Fore!Kids Foundation goes to a myriad of local and national sources. Some of the organizations include the American Cancer Society, Blessings in a Backpack, the Louisiana Children’s Museum and the Youth Empowerment Project.