Officials of the Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide announced today that the 43rd playing of the prestigious invitational, concluded June 4, 2017, raised $2,250,000 for charitable organizations in central Ohio, including a record-setting $1,875,000 for Nationwide Children’s Hospital through an alliance with the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation. Since its first playing in 1976, the Memorial has eclipsed $29 million in donations to central Ohio charities, with more than $18.5 million going to Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
True to the hearts of Jack and Barbara Nicklaus, the Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide includes as one of its primary objectives a genuine philanthropic vision. Embodied in the Memorial’s enduring partnership with Nationwide Children’s Hospital and support of the Memorial Tournament Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, pediatric care is at the center of each campaign and event these entities jointly execute.
“The Memorial is proud of its long-standing history of charitable giving in central Ohio and beyond,” said Dan Sullivan, the Tournament’s executive director. “Charitable giving has been a driving force for the Memorial from its beginning, and we are thrilled that the Tournament has been successful in growing its commitment to the local community and charity, especially its more than 43-year relationship with Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Events like our annual Legends Luncheon and FORE! Miler contributed to making this a record year in charitable giving. Also paramount to the Memorial’s successful charitable campaign is the shared philanthropic vision of presenting sponsor Nationwide, and we are grateful to continue that relationship through the 2021 Tournament.”
“In addition,” Sullivan continued, “the dedication and commitment exhibited by the Tournament’s volunteer corps, in particular the members of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Committee and the over 2,000 Nationwide Children’s volunteers, is an essential ingredient in making the Memorial one of the top tournaments on the PGA TOUR and a must-attend event in central Ohio.”
“Each year the generous spirit of the central Ohio community showcases itself during the Memorial Tournament and 2017 was no exception,” said Steve Allen, MD, chief executive officer, Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “On behalf of the patients, families and staff at Nationwide Children’s, we are thankful for the Memorial Tournament’s generosity and the selflessness of Jack and Barbara Nicklaus. This kind of commitment will help Nationwide Children’s continue its delivery of the highest quality of healthcare and research to children globally.”
Nationwide, which has been the Tournament sponsor for eight years, shares a similar tradition of support for Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Nationwide is committed to broadening the impact of its presenting sponsorship of the Memorial Tournament to bring greater awareness and increased funding to Nationwide Children’s and to those who benefit the most – families and children in need of care. That commitment was on full display in December 2015, when Nationwide, the Memorial Tournament and the PGA TOUR announced a six-year relationship that began with the 2016 Tournament. The agreement extends the partnership among the three organizations through 2021.
“Nationwide is honored to be involved with this noble cause,” said Nationwide Chief Marketing Officer Terrance Williams. “Each year, working with The Memorial Tournament, Nationwide builds upon and expands this national platform to highlight the amazing work happening at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. We’re committed to and excited about continuing our support for the patients, doctors, nurses and staff at this amazing facility for years to come.”
The 2018 Memorial Tournament presented by Nationwide is scheduled for May 28–June 3 at world-renowned Muirfield Village Golf Club. The public may call the Tournament Ticket Office 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays at 877-MT BADGE or visit mtbadge.com to purchase badges. Kids 18 and under can attend for free with a ticketed adult. Daily practice round tickets for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are also available. The introductory cost is $35 through January 31, and they are valid for all three practice-round days.
