The Portland Classic is currently underway, showcasing an exciting display of talent from some of the finest LGPA golfers. Leading the pack is Andrea Lee, who has taken the top spot on the leaderboard, while Alexa Pano and Dewi Weber are tied for second place. This prestigious LPGA Tour event takes place in Oregon, where last year’s rising star, Chanettee Wannasaen, made history.
Wannasaen secured her first LPGA Tour title and a substantial prize of $225,000 with an impressive bogey-free 63 in the final round. The stakes are even higher this year at the 2024 Portland Classic, with a significant increase in the prize purse. The winner not only receives the coveted trophy but also a lucrative sum of $262,500. The runner-up and third-place finisher will be awarded $165,070 and $119,746, respectively.
Beyond the financial rewards, the Portland Classic offers an opportunity for exceptional talents to earn valuable world ranking points and get closer to the prestigious CME Globe title. With 500 Race to the CME Globe points at stake, the competition promises to be fierce. However, organizers are currently facing challenges in finding a new title sponsor for this remarkable tournament.
The Portland Classic, a highly anticipated event on the LPGA calendar, may not return next year. LPGA Vice President Casey Ceman expressed concerns about finding a title sponsor to ensure its continuation. Andrea Lee, the current leader of the tournament and the 2022 champion, expressed her sadness, saying, “It’s a little disheartening. I have a great affection for Portland and this event.”
From tournament organizers to golfers, there is a collective sense of disappointment regarding the uncertain future of the tournament. For the first time in its history, the event has been without a title sponsor for two consecutive years, a situation reminiscent of its early days from 1972 to 1977. Throughout its existence, the tournament has been supported by a series of well-known sponsors. Ping served as the inaugural title sponsor from 1978 to 1995, followed by Safeway from 1996 to 2013, and Cambia Health Solutions from 2015 to 2021. The most recent title sponsor was AmazingCre in 2022.
However, finding a new title sponsor for the upcoming tournament has proven to be a challenge. Casey Ceman of the LPGA is working tirelessly to secure the event’s future. “We’re making every effort to ensure that this year’s event is successful and enjoyable for both players and sponsors,” she stated.
But fret not, golf enthusiasts! You can still savor the excitement of this year’s tournament and remain hopeful for its future. So, who do you think will emerge victorious in the 2024 Portland Classic? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Photo by Portland Classic (X)
