PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. and MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 1, 2015 – The PGA TOUR, tournament host organization Youth Programs, Inc., and Memphis-based FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) announced today that FedEx has extended its title sponsorship of the FedEx St. Jude Classic through 2017.
“FedEx epitomizes the charitable purpose of the PGA TOUR and what we’re all about,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. “It continues to play a vital role in growing the FedEx St. Jude Classic’s impact throughout the Memphis community and, in particular, the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®. We are absolutely delighted that FedEx will continue its commitment.”
This year marks the 30th anniversary that FedEx has been involved in the sponsorship of the FedEx St. Jude Classic. The company first became title sponsor in 1986. The emphasis on giving back to the community still rings true today as more than 400 FedEx team members will serve as tournament volunteers at TPC Southwind, located near FedEx Express headquarters in Memphis.
“This tournament is an integral part of the Memphis community. Not only does it bring some of the world’s best golfers to town, but it also supports the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in finding cures and saving children. We are proud to continue our sponsorship of the FedEx St. Jude Classic,” said Patrick Fitzgerald, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, FedEx Services.
The FedEx St. Jude Classic has raised more than $30 million for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since 1970, when the hospital became its sole beneficiary. The tournament provides the hospital with a global platform that has helped to raise its profile and further increase financial contributions and support.
“This year marks FedEx’s 30th year of sponsorship of our event,” said tournament General Chairman Jack Sammons. “We are fortunate and extremely blessed to have two hometown, world-class brands associated with our event in FedEx and St. Jude. Those facts are about as good as it gets on the PGA TOUR.”
“FedEx has had a significant impact on the PGA TOUR and professional golf not only through its longstanding sponsorship of the FedEx St. Jude Classic, but its bold commitment to align with us on the FedExCup, which truly has transformed the landscape of our sport,” Finchem said.
The 2015 FedEx St. Jude Classic is scheduled for June 8-14 at TPC Southwind, where it has been held since 1989. Ben Crane is the defending champion.