(HARRIS, MICHIGAN) – June 26-28, 2026 – The 15th annual Island Resort Championship
returns to Sweetgrass Golf Club this summer, bringing elite competition on one of the Midwest’s
most scenic and award-winning courses, along with family-friendly entertainment watching the
rising stars of professional women’s golf up close. As a premier stop on the Epson Tour — the
official qualifying tour for the LPGA — the event offers a welcoming atmosphere for both golf
fans and casual spectators.
The Island Resort Championship showcases 144 of the world’s top rising women golfers
competing for a $225,000 purse and the opportunity to earn their way onto the LPGA Tour. The
tournament champion will receive a $33,750 winner’s check, a championship trophy and a tribal
honor quilt handmade by an elder of the Hannahville Indian Community — a unique tradition
that reflects the culture and spirit behind the event.
Again, this year, the Epson Tour’s three Michigan tournaments have partnered with the
Michigan Economic Development Corporation to continue the Pure Michigan Cup, launched in
2025, awarding an additional $20,000 in bonus money (1st place – $10,000; 2nd place – $6,000;
3rd place – $4,000) to the top three point-earners after the three successive Michigan
tournaments: FireKeepers Casino Hotel Championship (June 12-14; Marshall, MI), Great Lakes
Championship (June 19-21; Harbor Springs, MI) and The Island Resort Championship at
Sweetgrass (June 26-28; Harris, MI). A special trophy ceremony at the Island Resort
Championship will conclude the inaugural Cup.
The Epson Tour is the Official Qualifying Tour of the Ladies Professional Golf Association
(LPGA) where players earn LPGA Tour Membership through the Epson Tour’s Race for the
Card. In 2026, 15 LPGA cards will be distributed to top points earners over the 19-event
season. Each regular season event offers the winner 500 points, and the Epson Tour
Championship in Indian Wells, CA, offers 650 points as the season finale.
The strength of today’s Epson Tour competition is already being reflected at the LPGA level.
Melanie Green, winner of the 2025 Island Resort Championship and now competing as an
LPGA rookie, has already recorded two top 10 finishes this season. Her early success highlights
the caliber of talent on the Epson Tour and gives fans at the Island Resort Championship a
chance to see future LPGA stars up close.
More Than a Golf Tournament
Beyond the competition, the tournament has become a signature summer event for the
community, offering a memorable experience for families, sports fans and first-time spectators.
From following players from around the globe to enjoying the atmosphere around the course,
there are many reasons to attend — even for those who have never picked up a golf club.
“With each passing year, the excitement continues to grow,” said Tournament Co-chairman
Tony Mancilla. “Our volunteers return year after year with incredible energy, our employees love
meeting players from around the world, and the level of competition keeps getting better.
Whether you golf, follow sports or are looking for a fun event to attend with your family, this is
something you don’t want to miss.”
Fans are encouraged to bring a chair or use the bleachers by the 9th and 18th greens, as well
as at the center of the course. Spectators are welcome to follow golfers throughout their rounds
and meet players for autographs and photos after they finish. Affordable food and beverages
are available throughout the course, with fan favorites like burgers and brats priced at just $3.
Tickets to the June tournament are $10 for adults and free for 17 and under with an adult.
Tickets are on sale now at local non-profits, with proceeds going to the charities that sell them.
A list of participating organizations can be found online at www.IslandResortGolf.com
BY-Lisa Magnin
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