The RSM Classic: A Coastal PGA Tour Tradition

The RSM Classic, held each November on the Golden Isles of Georgia, has grown into one of the PGA Tour’s most respected late-season stops since its inception in 2010. Played at Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island, the event offers both world-class competition and a relaxed coastal setting that reflects the culture of its host community. Founded by Davis Love III, a Georgia native and longtime PGA Tour star, the tournament continues to serve as a celebration of golf, philanthropy, and southern hospitality.

Course and Format

The RSM Classic is unique on the PGA Tour because it utilizes two courses during the opening rounds: the Seaside Course and the Plantation Course. Both layouts are designed to highlight the natural beauty of the Georgia coastline, with marshlands, ocean breezes, and tidal creeks all influencing play. The Seaside Course, a Tom Fazio redesign, serves as the primary venue and is known for its link-style challenges and wind exposure, while the Plantation Course, recently renovated by Love III and his brother Mark, provides a parkland-style counterpoint.

For the first two days of the tournament, the field is split between the two courses before all competitors move to the Seaside Course for the weekend. The par-70, 7,005-yard Seaside Course often yields birdie opportunities but requires precision with irons and a steady putter. Players who thrive on accuracy rather than raw power tend to find success here, making it a distinctive test compared to longer PGA Tour venues.

Players and Competition

While not always attracting the deepest field compared to major championships or elevated PGA Tour events, the RSM Classic has carved out a reputation for producing first-time winners and dramatic finishes. Past champions include Mackenzie Hughes (2016), Austin Cook (2017), and Robert Streb (2014, 2020). In recent years, more well-known players such as Charles Howell III and Kevin Kisner—both Sea Island residents—have also lifted the trophy, further cementing the event’s identity as a tournament for both Tour veterans and emerging talent.

The timing of the event, typically late in the calendar year, often makes it pivotal for players looking to secure their PGA Tour cards or improve positioning for the next season. This urgency adds intensity to the competition, as every stroke can have implications for a player’s future.

Atmosphere and Community Impact

The RSM Classic is deeply tied to the local community, blending high-level professional golf with charitable outreach. Through the Davis Love Foundation, proceeds from the tournament benefit numerous nonprofits across the country, with a focus on children’s healthcare and education. Since its inception, the event has raised millions of dollars for charity, making philanthropy a central part of its legacy.

Fans attending the RSM Classic often highlight the intimate, accessible atmosphere compared to larger tournaments. The smaller venue allows spectators to follow players more closely, while the coastal scenery enhances the experience. The event also includes pro-ams and corporate hospitality opportunities, reflecting its reputation as both a competitive and social occasion.

A Distinctive Stop on Tour

Ultimately, the RSM Classic stands out on the PGA Tour schedule not only for its scenic setting and demanding golf courses, but also for its community-first identity. For players, it’s a chance to close out the season on a strong note; for fans, it’s an opportunity to enjoy PGA Tour golf in a relaxed, welcoming environment. And for the local community, it remains an annual reminder that golf can be both competitive sport and a powerful force for good.