Belle Meade Country Club
News Summary
Thomson, Georgia, is set to host the 9th Annual Golf Tournament at Belle Meade Country Club, celebrating the legacy of Lee Elder and honoring influential Black caddies. The event features a four-person best ball format and emphasizes the importance of Black representation in golf. Participants can register on the day of the tournament, and an evening reception will precede the event. This exciting gathering brings together golf enthusiasts while supporting renovations to a local museum.
Excitement Builds in Thomson, Georgia for the 9th Annual Golf Tournament!
Thomson, Georgia, is gearing up for an incredible celebration on Thursday, June 5, as it hosts the 9th Annual Golf Tournament at the renowned Belle Meade Country Club. This year’s event is special as it will pay tribute to the legendary Lee Elder, who made history 50 years ago as the first Black golfer invited to play in the esteemed Masters Tournament. Elder’s achievements in the sport have paved the way for many, making this tournament a heartfelt homage to his legacy.
Honoring the Unsung Heroes of Augusta National
This year’s tournament isn’t just about celebrating Lee Elder. It will also shine a spotlight on three remarkable Black caddies from Augusta National: Henry Brown, Jessie Ross, and Henry “Jnox” McClendan. These gentlemen have played pivotal roles in the sport, often behind the scenes, and it’s high time their contributions are acknowledged. The tournament promises to be not just a competition but a meaningful celebration of the rich history of Black representation in golf.
Get Ready to Tee Off!
Golf enthusiasts will be excited to learn that the tournament will feature a four-person best ball format, played in a fun Captain’s Choice style. For those unfamiliar, this means players on each team can choose the best shot from their group for their next stroke, making for a lively experience! The tournament will kick off with a shotgun start at 9 a.m., ensuring plenty of energy and excitement right from the get-go.
Registration Details
Haven’t signed up yet? Don’t worry! Late registration is available on the day of the event, from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.. Make sure to register early to save on your entry fee. If you sign up before May 26, it’s just $90. After that date and up until the day of the tournament, the fee rises to $125. Early registrants will also enjoy one admission to the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History, a wonderful place to learn more about the impactful history of African Americans in the area.
Kickoff Reception at the Museum
The fun doesn’t stop with just golf. Attendees are invited to a lovely reception the evening before the tournament, on Wednesday, June 4, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the same museum. This is a fantastic opportunity to mingle with fellow golf lovers while enjoying some delicious snacks and drinks.
Don’t Miss Out!
Space in this thrilling tournament is limited to the first 88 players, so don’t wait too long to grab your spot! Meals during the tournament will be generously provided by Wife Saver, ensuring that players have plenty of energy to play their best on the green. All proceeds from this wonderful event will go directly towards supporting crucial renovations to the museum’s Administrative House, ensuring that this treasure trove of history continues to thrive.
How to Register
If you’re ready to hit the greens for a great cause, or if you know someone who would love to participate, registration is easy! Just give a call to 404-488-3207 or visit the LucyCraftLaneyMuseum.com for more information. Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and prepare to make some unforgettable memories at this incredible tournament!
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Additional Resources
- WJBF: Laney Museum’s Annual Golf Tournament
- Wikipedia: Golf
- Blue By Ninety: Hunter Thomson Advances
- Google Search: Hunter Thomson Golf
- LPGA: Lexi Thompson Overview
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Peter Thomson
- Amateur Golf: Hunter Thomson Earns Invite
- Google News: Lee Elder Golf

Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.