May 23-26, 2013
Colonial Country Club -
Ft. Worth, Texas
- Par: 70
- Yardage: 7204
- Purse: $6,400,000
- Champion: Zach Johnson (D)
As the longest running tournament on the PGA Tour still taking place at its inaugural site, it is no wonder the Crowne Plaza Invitational is steeped in history and tradition. Founded in 1946 at the Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, TX, the tournament is just one of five invitational events on the PGA Tour. Ben Hogan has long been associated with the tournament having won the championship five times, more than other player in history. A long time Fort Worth resident himself, Hogan considered its course his home town playing field. The course was originally designed in 1936 and has made the distinguished list of America’s Top 100 Courses for as long as golf course rankings have existed. It hosted the 1941 US Open, the 1975 Players Championship, and the 1991 US Women’s Open. A long list of traditions is what makes this event truly great. Starting back in 1952, an official Scottish royal tartan plaid jacket has been awarded to the champion along with a classic gold ring displaying a 1-carat diamond. Every champions’ name is also engraved on the famous Wall of Champions located at the first tee as well as on the first place awarded Leonard Trophy. Perhaps most impressively, the winner is provided a “Champions’ Choice” invitation to select any two young players to compete who would not otherwise qualify for the tournament. Zach Johnson was awarded all of those accolades with his 2012 victory.