A Historic Moment on Golf’s Main Stage: The Concession Gears Up for the Senior PGA Championship

The term 'concession' typically refers to the act of yielding or granting something, often to facilitate an agreement. This concept is commonly encountered when discussing political figures who, after an election loss, deliver a concession speech.

However, during the upcoming 86th Senior PGA Championship, held from April 16-19 at The Concession Golf Club—a premier destination in Florida's Sarasota and Bradenton region—players will certainly not be giving up any putts.

The Significance of the Name

The course, co-designed by golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin, derives its name from what club owner Bruce Cassidy describes as "the greatest example of sportsmanship in history." It commemorates a famous moment during the final round of the 1969 Ryder Cup at Royal Birkdale. In a gesture of remarkable sportsmanship, Jack Nicklaus conceded a three-foot putt to Tony Jacklin, even though the U.S. team had already secured enough points to retain the Cup through a tie. Had Jacklin missed the putt, the U.S. would have won the match outright.

The idea for the course originated with Sarasota resident Tony Jacklin, who approached Nicklaus. The "Golden Bear" enthusiastically supported the concept, and The Concession opened its doors two decades ago.

Few golf professionals are more familiar with the course than Paul Azinger, the 1993 PGA Championship winner and a renowned TV golf analyst. Azinger grew up in the area, was among the club's original members, and was just nine years old when Nicklaus made his iconic concession on England's northeast coast.

As his career advanced, Azinger achieved 12 victories on the PGA Tour and captained the winning 2008 U.S. Ryder Cup team, further deepening his appreciation for that historic act of sportsmanship.

“It truly established the benchmark for what golf etiquette should embody, regardless of whether you win, lose, or draw,” Azinger remarked.

The Championship Course

The Concession presents a formidable challenge even for top players, demanding precision both on and off the greens. Many golfers have sought opportunities to experience the course for themselves, especially in conjunction with recent PGA Tour Champions events held in nearby Naples and Boca Raton.

“While familiarity is beneficial, it doesn't necessarily dictate how the PGA will set up the course. It’s challenging off the tee; you can’t simply hit driver on every hole. Smart, strategic golf is essential. I’m still uncertain about the safest places to miss on any given hole,” Azinger explained. “I also don’t believe length offers a significant advantage, but trajectory will be crucial because the ball must carry into narrow landing areas.”

Kerry Haigh, the PGA of America’s Chief Championships Officer, who has served in the position since 2013, is ultimately responsible for the course setup. Haigh noted that five years prior, Colin Morikawa won a PGA Tour event on this course with an 18-under par score.

“The score will be what it will be; we don’t have a specific number in mind. Our goal is to ensure it’s fair, yet presents a significant challenge and a true test,” Haigh stated concerning the course, which could play over 6,900 yards. “There will be some birdie opportunities. We anticipate all the par-fives will be reachable, creating chances for excitement, but there are also numerous opportunities for trouble and demanding hole locations.”

According to Haigh, “If a player misses on the wrong side, getting up and down at The Concession will be as difficult as anywhere in the country.”

The PGA of America has finalized a three-year agreement to host the Senior PGA Championship at The Concession. This marks the first time the longest-running senior major will be played in Florida since it was held at PGA National from 1982 to 2000.

Masters and U.S. Open champion Angel Cabrera is the defending champion, part of a strong field that includes 24 major winners, as confirmed by Championship Director Eric Nuxol. His comments, made alongside local business, political, and tourism leaders, underscore the considerable importance of hosting this prestigious event.

Nuxol emphasized that both volunteers and local businesses are still welcome to support the tournament this year and in future events. A variety of sponsorship packages are available, and fans can purchase tickets for the 2026 Senior PGA Championship to experience the action firsthand.