Purple Gold Golf Open to return Oct. 16
REGISTER NOW
Register for the Purple Gold Golf Open for a chance to take home a trophy and support student scholarships.
While the pandemic has postponed nearly all ECU Alumni Association programming for fall, one event has survived: The Purple Gold Golf Open.
The 2020 tournament will be on Friday, Oct. 16 at the Ironwood Golf and Country Club in Greenville, and will be adjusted to comply with COVID-19 safety protocols. The fun, tradition and community with fellow golf-loving Pirates will remain unchanged.
As in past years, the tournament will have slots for morning and afternoon flights, with opportunities for prizes along the way. Trophies will be given to the lowest gross scoring teams as well as lowest net scoring teams. There will also be a closest-to-the-pin contest and long-drive contest during the 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. flights. Ironwood’s 18-hole, par-72 course accommodates players of all skill levels and was voted Best Golf Course in Greenville by the Daily Reflector in 2019.
Players not only get to enjoy a day on the links, they also support ECU students. The event is the primary fundraiser for ECU Alumni Association scholarships. Since its establishment in 2005, the program has awarded 318 scholarships totaling over $481,000.
“A decrease in revenue means a decrease in the number of scholarships that can be awarded,” said Shawn Moore, director for scholarship and signature programs for the alumni association. “COVID-19 has disrupted so many of our scholars’ lives and put their educational dreams in jeopardy. Now more than ever, they depend on the financial assistance this program provides. So, we need to sell this event out.”
Golfers play at Ironwood Golf and Country Club at the 2019 Purple Gold Golf Open. (Photo by ECU Alumni Association)
Event changes for 2020:
- Only 18 teams per flight will be allowed.
- There will be no group meals, but beverages and snacks will be available all day.
- Only full teams of four will be allowed to register. Teams of two, three or singles will not be placed with other people.
- The day of the event, participants will be asked to complete a symptom screening test and have their temperatures taken upon arrival at the golf course.
- Social distancing rules will be practiced at check-in and during announcements.
- Players will need to wear a mask when in common areas and/or when social distancing is not possible.