That’s why Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry just made a particularly thrilling announcement. Welcome a new LIV Golf tournament to their fold New Orleans, the Civic Center of the Future starting in June 2026! This event serves as one of the biggest wins for the state’s sports tourism. It is on track to create about $40 million in economic impact for the local economy.
The state has already promised $5 million to land the tournament. As part of that push, they’ve set aside $2.2 million for City Park, Bayou Oaks course improvements. Further, this investment benefits the golf industry. It refreshes one of the nation’s largest urban parks, capital of 1,300 acres, with a history of more than 170 years.
Having the LIV Golf tournament in June should give anyone pause. This is all happening at the same time the hurricane season is getting underway. Governor Landry has assured that the event will not be in competition with New Orleans’ cherished PGA Tour stop, the Zurich Classic. This world-renowned tournament is usually played every April.
“We’re going to try it out and then we’ll see,” – Jeff Landry.
LIV star and fellow Gulf Coaster Bubba Watson downplayed worries over the summer sun. He didn’t pretend to be afraid about the weather turning on him. He added that millions of communities already deal with extreme heat in the hotter summer months.
“It’s going to be hot in a lot of places in the summer,” – Bubba Watson.
He added that preparation is key for coping with the heat, stating, “I’ve grown up in the South. I know about heat. We just prepare for it.” Watson further underscored his ties to New Orleans, enough to almost claim it as his home.
“I’m from the Gulf Coast and this is part of my home,” – Bubba Watson.
Governor Landry dismissed concerns about New Orleans being able to support both a PGA Tour event and a LIV Golf tournament. In doing so he launched the idea that there’s plenty of space in this world for both events to continue to exist and prosper.
“Whether we’ve got to adjust the dates after this go-around, we’ll see. But my objective is to have this be LIV’s home,” – Jeff Landry.
Landry spoke to the significance of having this tournament announced on the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. This timing couldn’t be more perfect as it highlights the theme of the community’s ongoing resilience and recovery.
“What an unbelievable opportunity to announce this on the 20th-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina,” – Jeff Landry.
The planned improvements to Bayou Oaks course are expected to enhance both the golfing experience and the overall appeal of City Park, aligning with Louisiana’s broader goal of investing in its recreational spaces.
Leave a Reply