The Grand Strand was buzzing with excitement this past week as the 2025 ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic made its much-anticipated debut at the historic Dunes Golf and Beach Club. The inaugural PGA TOUR event brought with it more than just great golf — it brought Hollywood celebrities, rising stars, unforgettable moments, and a powerful sense of community. From sunup to sundown, Myrtle Beach proved once again why it’s one of the top golf destinations in the world.
An Iconic Venue Takes Center Stage
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club, one of the South’s most revered golf courses, served as the host venue. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and opened in 1948, the Dunes Club is steeped in tradition, boasting ocean views, the iconic par-5 “Waterloo” 13th hole, and a layout that challenges even the best professionals. For both players and fans, the natural beauty and classic design of the course provided a breathtaking stage for the week’s drama to unfold.
The club’s location along the Atlantic coastline offered a unique blend of championship golf and seaside charm, creating an atmosphere unlike any other stop on the tour. The ocean breeze proved to be a key factor during the competition, testing players’ shot-making abilities and patience throughout the week.
Hollywood Hits the Fairways
One of the standout moments of the week was the Celebrity Pro-Am, which took place ahead of the main tournament and generated enormous buzz both locally and nationally. ONEflight International, the title sponsor, helped bring a stunning lineup of celebrities to Myrtle Beach.
Hollywood legends Kevin Costner and Kurt Russell were among the most recognizable faces, drawing crowds wherever they went on the course. Costner, who is not only known for his acting but also for his country-rock band Modern West, played with a relaxed confidence and genuine love for the game. Kurt Russell, a known golf enthusiast, brought his signature charisma and competitive edge, clearly enjoying every moment.
Adding hometown pride to the mix was Vanna White, the beloved co-host of Wheel of Fortune and a North Myrtle Beach native. Her return to the Grand Strand for the event was met with local adoration, and she even hosted the Ignite Women’s Brunch, an empowering gathering that celebrated women in business, leadership, and sport. We were proud to be part of this event.
Other stars included actors David Arquette, Haley Joel Osment, Michael Chiklis, and comedian Bert Kreischer, who brought his high-energy personality and humor to the greens. The celebrities didn’t just show up — they participated fully, mingling with fans, posing for photos, and even sticking around to cheer on the pros during the main event.
A Championship-Worthy Performance
When tournament play began on Thursday, the attention shifted to the world-class field of PGA TOUR professionals. The week featured low scores, drama-filled rounds, and a memorable finish.
New Zealand’s Ryan Fox stole the show, securing his first career PGA TOUR victory in thrilling fashion. Fox clinched the win with a 50-foot chip-in birdie on the playoff hole, outlasting Mackenzie Hughes and Harry Higgs in a three-man showdown. The victory not only secured Fox a two-year exemption on the Tour but also earned him a coveted spot in the upcoming PGA Championship.
Fans and commentators praised Fox’s composure and creativity, especially under pressure. “That chip-in was one of the most clutch shots I’ve ever hit,” Fox said in a post-round interview. “To win here, with the crowd so engaged and the course playing firm and fast, it’s a dream come true.”
A Family Affair: The Byrd Legacy
Another heartwarming storyline came from the Byrd family, who captured the crowd’s attention in an unexpected way. Jackson Byrd, a freshman standout at Clemson University, made the cut and played into the weekend on a sponsor’s exemption. Meanwhile, his father, five-time PGA TOUR winner Jonathan Byrd, missed the cut by just one stroke.
It was a passing of the torch moment — and one that resonated deeply with fans and fellow players. “To see Jackson perform like that in a field of this caliber is incredible,” Jonathan said. “I couldn’t be prouder.”
The father-son dynamic added an emotional layer to the competition and showcased the family-friendly values that Myrtle Beach and the PGA TOUR both champion.
Community, Charity, and Local Flavor
Beyond the tournament itself, the week was filled with events that brought the Grand Strand community together. Local vendors, food trucks, and hospitality tents lined the spectator areas, giving visitors a taste of the Myrtle Beach lifestyle — from shrimp and grits to craft beers and live music.
The tournament also gave back. A portion of proceeds benefited local charities, including programs supporting junior golf development and veteran services. The Ignite Women’s Brunch, led by Vanna White, raised funds and awareness for women’s initiatives and brought together leaders from across the Carolinas.
From the volunteers and marshals to the spectators and business owners, the entire community embraced the event, transforming it into a true celebration of sport, unity, and Southern hospitality.
Economic Impact and a Bright Future
As the dust settles on the fairways of the Dunes Club, the economic impact of the 2025 ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic is already being felt. Hotels were booked solid, restaurants stayed busy, and local attractions saw increased foot traffic throughout the week.
Myrtle Beach’s national spotlight during the week boosted its image not just as a vacation spot but as a premier golf destination capable of hosting elite professional tournaments. With the success of the first edition, talks have already begun to secure the event’s return in future years — and possibly become a staple on the PGA TOUR calendar.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic was more than just another golf tournament. It was a celebration — of community, of celebrities, of competition, and of course, of Myrtle Beach itself.
With its stunning coastal setting, world-class golf, and a blend of Hollywood charm and local pride, the event delivered a week that will be remembered for years to come. Whether you were there for the golf, the celebrities, or the sense of connection, one thing was clear: Myrtle Beach knows how to host a party — and it’s only getting started.
For full tournament coverage, celebrity recaps, and a gallery of photos, visit MyrtleBeachClassic.com.