AT&T and Atlanta Classic Foundation officials announced last week that the new name of Atlanta's annual PGA TOUR stop is the AT&T Classic. The new name and logo for the May 14-20, 2007, tournament at TPC at Sugarloaf in Duluth, Georgia reflect the recently approved merger between AT&T and BellSouth.
"AT&T is honored to be associated with a longtime Atlanta event that gives back so much to local charities," said Rod Odom, president and CEO, AT&T Southeast. "AT&T has a long tradition of service in the community, and we're pleased that the AT&T Classic will continue its rich tradition of hospitality, charity, and world-class golf on an outstanding course for players and galleries alike."
"AT&T is one of the world's most recognized and respected brands," said Dave Kaplan, tournament director, AT&T Classic. "We're thrilled to be associated with a company that's well-known locally, around the world, and in the golfing community. We anticipate a seamless transition as we work with our new friends at AT&T. As always, our primary goals will be to host the greatest golfers in the world and to raise funds for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and other local and national charities."
In addition to the AT&T Classic, AT&T sponsors The Masters, the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, and two CHAMPIONS TOUR events in San Antonio and Los Angeles. AT&T's sponsorship agreement with the AT&T Classic runs through the 2010 tournament.
The AT&T Classic, now in its 39th year, will offer a total purse of $5.4 million, up $100,000 from last year. In 2006, the tournament contributed a record $1.7 million to local charities. Since 1983, the tournament has donated more than $12.3 million to local charitable organizations.
Professionals who are expected to compete in May include two-time defending champion Phil Mickelson, two-time U.S. Open champion Retief Goosen, Chris DiMarco, Sugarloaf resident Stewart Cink and many more of the world's finest golfers.
For more information, check out the press release Introducing the AT&T Classic.
