The Epson Tour will return to Connecticut in 2024, playing the second edition of the Hartford HealthCare Women’s Championship. The Official Qualifying Tour of the LPGA will make their 12th stop of the season at Sacred Heart University’s Great River Golf Club in Milford, Connecticut from July 8-14, 2024.
“We are so proud to bring back to Connecticut the Hartford HealthCare Women’s Championship – the Official Qualifying Tour of the LPGA,” said Karen Goyette, Hartford HealthCare’s Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer. “This partnership clearly aligns with our vision and our commitment to engaging with our community while investing in and empowering future women leaders. As a health care leader, and someone who loves the game of golf, I believe in the shared vision of these two organizations and we are honored to support young women on their path to excellence.”
“We are thrilled to return to Connecticut for the 2024 Hartford HealthCare Women’s Championship,” said the Epson Tour’s Chief Business and Operating Officer, Jody Brothers. “Sacred Heart’s Great River Golf Club tested our athletes in the inaugural playing and will continue to prepare them to achieve their dreams of playing on the LPGA Tour. I don’t know if we can repeat the drama of a seven-hole playoff, but I am sure the tournament will captivate the strong Connecticut Golfing Community.”
The 144-player field will compete for an elevated purse of $225,000 in 2024, a 12.5 percent increase from 2023. With four of the top five players from the 2023 leaderboard heading to the LPGA this season, the 2024 Hartford HealthCare Women’s Championship will see many new faces in the field. However, one big name returns with Jenny Bae teeing it up to defend her title. The 2023 Hartford HealthCare Women’s Championship was only Bae’s second start on the Epson Tour and her first professional win.
“I’m excited to come back and compete,” said Bae. “I feel confident in my course knowledge of Great River, however every player in the field is strong and has a chance to win each week. The Epson Tour is a great path the to LPGA TOUR.”
Jenny Bae
Tickets are on sale now, with general admission starting at $15 and all proceeds going to the First Tee of Connecticut. From Mark Moriarty, the First Tee of Connecticut’s Executive Director, “First Tee – Connecticut is extremely grateful to partner with the Epson Tour’s Hartford Healthcare Women’s Championship. Proceeds from ticket sales donated to First Tee – Connecticut will go directly to offset costs associated with our youth development programs across the state. With 20 Epson Tour players in the field at last year’s Championship graduating to the LPGA, these top players serve as fabulous role models for younger generations. As girls’ golf programs and clinics at First Tee – Connecticut continue to multiply with demand, it’s inspirational for these girls to interact with the Epson Tour players at the Hartford Healthcare Women’s Championship event and further their own dreams to play golf at a competitive or professional level. “
On Saturday July 13th, Connecticut Dads are encouraged to bring their daughter(s) to the course for a special day. Dad’s and their daughter (s) will receive a voucher to Lyman Orchard Apple Course, a tournament hat and all you can eat ice cream.
Children are free for all tournament days. Additionally, the tournament is looking for locals to volunteer their time.
More information can be found at www.hhcwomenschamp.com.
