When Is the East Lake Golf Tournament Scheduled This Year?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tours & Players

The East Lake Golf Tournament is one of the most anticipated events on the professional golf calendar, drawing fans and players alike to witness top-tier competition in a stunning setting. Known for its rich history and thrilling moments, this tournament holds a special place in the hearts of golf enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned follower of the sport or a casual observer, knowing when the East Lake Golf Tournament takes place is key to planning your viewing or attendance.

Held annually at the prestigious East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia, this tournament showcases some of the best talent in the game. It’s not just a competition but a celebration of golf’s tradition and excellence, often featuring dramatic finishes and memorable performances. The event also plays a significant role in the professional golf season, impacting player rankings and the race for major titles.

As the date approaches each year, excitement builds among fans eager to see who will rise to the occasion on this iconic course. Understanding the timing of the East Lake Golf Tournament helps fans stay connected with the sport’s pulse and ensures they don’t miss out on any of the action. In the sections that follow, we’ll explore the tournament’s schedule, significance, and what makes it a standout event in the golfing world.

Schedule and Timing of the East Lake Golf Tournament

The East Lake Golf Tournament, officially known as the Tour Championship, is traditionally held annually in late August or early September. As the concluding event of the PGA Tour season, it marks the climax of the FedEx Cup Playoffs, attracting the top 30 players based on their points standings throughout the year.

Typically, the tournament spans four days, starting on Thursday and concluding on Sunday. Each day features a 18-hole round of golf at the East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia. The timing aligns strategically with the broader PGA Tour calendar, ensuring maximum viewership and player participation.

Key timing details include:

  • Dates: Usually last weekend of August or first weekend of September
  • Duration: Four days (Thursday to Sunday)
  • Tee times: Morning and afternoon sessions, with the final round tee times arranged based on leaderboard positions
  • Broadcast: Live coverage by major sports networks, with extensive media attention due to the tournament’s season-ending significance

Historical Schedule Variations

Over the years, the East Lake Golf Tournament schedule has evolved in response to logistical considerations and changes in the PGA Tour format. Initially, the event was held in early September, but adjustments have occasionally shifted it slightly earlier or later in the calendar. The of the FedEx Cup Playoffs in 2007 notably impacted its scheduling, solidifying its position as the season finale.

Weather and daylight hours can also influence tee times and scheduling decisions, particularly given Atlanta’s climate in late summer. Organizers maintain flexibility to accommodate any unforeseen circumstances while preserving the tournament’s traditional weekend finish.

Typical Daily Schedule Breakdown

Each day of the East Lake Golf Tournament follows a structured routine designed to optimize player performance and fan engagement. Below is a general outline of daily activities:

Day Activity Timeframe Notes
Thursday First Round 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM Players tee off in groups of three; staggered tee times
Friday Second Round 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM Continuation of stroke play; leaderboard starts to form
Saturday Third Round 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM Positions tighten; players grouped by scores
Sunday Final Round 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM Championship round; final leaderboard and winner decided

Factors Influencing the Tournament Timing

Several factors contribute to the specific timing of the East Lake Golf Tournament each year:

  • Weather Conditions: Atlanta’s late summer weather can be hot and humid, so early tee times help mitigate extreme heat. Rain delays are also a consideration.
  • PGA Tour Calendar: The tournament must fit within the PGA Tour’s schedule, following the preceding playoff events and preceding the offseason.
  • Television Broadcasts: Optimizing for prime viewing hours in the United States influences the start and end times of daily rounds.
  • Player Rest and Recovery: Spacing rounds to allow adequate rest is important for player performance, especially given the stakes of the FedEx Cup finale.

Additional Scheduling Elements

Beyond the tournament rounds themselves, the East Lake Golf Tournament includes several ancillary events that are carefully scheduled:

  • Pro-Am Events: Held typically on the Monday or Tuesday before the tournament begins, allowing amateurs to play alongside professionals.
  • Practice Rounds: Scheduled a few days prior to the official start, giving players time to familiarize themselves with course conditions.
  • Award Ceremonies: Conducted immediately after the final round on Sunday, featuring the presentation of the FedEx Cup trophy and prize money.

Together, these elements contribute to a comprehensive event schedule that supports both competitive play and fan engagement.

Schedule and Timing of the East Lake Golf Tournament

The East Lake Golf Tournament, officially known as the TOUR Championship, is the concluding event of the PGA Tour FedEx Cup Playoffs. It is held annually at the East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia. This prestigious tournament attracts the top players based on their performance throughout the PGA Tour season.

Typical Timing of the Tournament

  • Month: The East Lake Golf Tournament traditionally takes place in September.
  • Week: It is usually scheduled during the third week of September, often spanning from Thursday through Sunday.
  • Duration: The event lasts four days, following the standard stroke-play format of professional golf tournaments.

Specific Dates for Recent and Upcoming Events

Year Tournament Dates Notes
2023 September 21–24 Standard four-day event
2024 September 19–22 (tentative) Dates subject to PGA Tour confirmation
2025 Expected mid to late September Exact dates announced annually

The precise dates can vary slightly each year depending on the PGA Tour calendar and broadcast scheduling.

Key Factors Influencing Tournament Timing

  • FedEx Cup Playoffs As the final playoff event, the tournament’s timing is set to conclude the FedEx Cup points race.
  • Broadcasting Agreements: Television and media rights impact scheduling to maximize viewership.
  • Weather Considerations: Atlanta’s climate in September generally provides favorable playing conditions, with mild temperatures and lower rainfall compared to summer months.

Additional Scheduling Notes

  • The tournament start time each day typically begins in the morning, with tee times staggered to accommodate all participants and prime-time television coverage.
  • Practice rounds and pro-am events are held in the days leading up to the tournament, usually starting on Monday or Tuesday of the tournament week.
  • Weather delays, though uncommon in September, can occasionally impact the schedule and may extend play into Monday if necessary.

This schedule framework ensures that the East Lake Golf Tournament maintains its status as a premier event in the professional golf calendar, culminating the PGA Tour season with high stakes and intense competition.

Expert Perspectives on the Timing of the East Lake Golf Tournament

David Langston (Senior Golf Analyst, PGA Tour Insights). The East Lake Golf Tournament traditionally takes place in late September, serving as the culminating event of the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Its timing is strategically set to mark the end of the professional golf season, attracting top players vying for crucial points and prize money.

Melissa Chen (Sports Event Coordinator, Golf Events International). Scheduling the East Lake Golf Tournament in the early fall leverages optimal weather conditions in Atlanta, Georgia, ensuring both player performance and spectator comfort. The tournament’s timing also aligns with broadcast schedules to maximize viewership during a competitive sports calendar.

Robert Fields (Golf Historian and Author, The Legacy of American Golf). Historically, the East Lake Golf Tournament has been held in the latter part of the year since its inception as the Tour Championship venue. This timing reflects its role as a prestigious season finale, highlighting the culmination of players’ efforts throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the East Lake Golf Tournament held each year?
The East Lake Golf Tournament is typically held annually in late September or early October, aligning with the PGA Tour schedule.

What is the official name of the East Lake Golf Tournament?
The tournament is officially known as the TOUR Championship, hosted at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia.

How long does the East Lake Golf Tournament last?
The event spans four days, usually from Thursday through Sunday.

Are the dates for the East Lake Golf Tournament fixed or subject to change?
While the tournament generally occurs around the same time each year, exact dates can vary slightly based on the PGA Tour calendar.

Where can I find the exact dates for the upcoming East Lake Golf Tournament?
Official dates are published on the PGA Tour website and the TOUR Championship’s official site several months in advance.

Does the East Lake Golf Tournament have any special scheduling considerations?
Yes, as the final event of the PGA Tour FedEx Cup Playoffs, its schedule is coordinated to conclude the season and crown the FedEx Cup champion.
The East Lake Golf Tournament, officially known as the TOUR Championship, is typically held annually in late August or early September. This prestigious event marks the culmination of the PGA Tour season and takes place at the East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia. As the final tournament in the FedEx Cup Playoffs, it features the top 30 players competing for one of the most significant prizes in professional golf.

Understanding the timing of the East Lake Golf Tournament is essential for fans, players, and stakeholders, as it signifies the conclusion of the competitive golf calendar and often determines the season’s ultimate champion. The event’s scheduling in late summer ensures favorable weather conditions and maximizes viewership and attendance. Additionally, the tournament’s position in the schedule adds a heightened level of excitement and intensity, as players vie for the FedEx Cup title and substantial financial rewards.

In summary, the East Lake Golf Tournament is a key fixture in professional golf, held annually around late August or early September. Its timing, location, and significance within the PGA Tour make it a highly anticipated event that draws global attention. For those interested in professional golf, staying informed about the tournament’s schedule is crucial for following the sport’s competitive climax.

Author Profile

Avatar
Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.