Deere & Company is teeing off with a big deal for golf fans on Tuesday.
It’s a seven-year pact to remain title sponsor of the John Deere Classic through 2023.
“We at John Deere believe that sponsorship is a wise investment in our business and a wise investment in our community,” said James Field, president of Deere’s Worldwide Agriculture and Turf Division.
That investment now produces an economic impact topping $50 million each year.
Deere will continue to build and sell equipment for use on golf courses and the PGA Tour.
All of this is a validation for the Quad Cities and a tournament that began back in 1971.
“All the volunteers, citizens, companies that supported the event,” said Tournament Director Clair Peterson. “And the kind of experience that the tournament has presented for 45 years.”
The John Deere Classic also sets PGA records by raising money for charities.
In 2014, the tournament generated more than $6.3 million for 471 organizations.
The Birdies for Charity tally is topping more than $62 million in its history.
“You can’t just say that number without wanting to stop for a second and think about how awe-inspiring that is,” said Jay Monahan, PGA deputy commissioner.
Extending the partnership is just the start.
During the next seven years, expect innovation and ideas to make the John Deere Classic even better for golfers and fans.
It’s a big league event worth big bucks in the Quad Cities.
“We’ll continue to grow this tournament and keep it at its world class level going forward,” Field concluded.
Future investment in golf that will pay local dividends for many years to come.
