The RSM Classic Tournament History | From McGladrey Roots to Fall Finale Icon

The RSM Classic Tournament History: The RSM Classic, held every November at Sea Island Golf Club’s Seaside and Plantation courses on St. Simons Island, Georgia, has been a flagship event on the PGA Tour’s fall calendar since its inception in 2010. Originally named the McGladrey Classic, it was rebranded in 2015 when its sponsor became RSM US, expanding its field to 156 players and establishing itself as the final official PGA Tour event of the year.

The RSM Classic Tournament History: Inaugural Years and McGladrey Legacy

The tournament launched in October 2010 with a hero’s welcome. PGA Tour stars Davis Love III and Zach Johnson led the opening ceremonies alongside a live logo painting by Rock Demarco. The first champion, Heath Slocum, carded a 266 (-14) to secure victory by one stroke over Bill Haas. Over the next few years, players like Ben Crane (2011), Tommy Gainey (2012), Chris Kirk (2013), and Robert Streb (2014) earned titles, often in dramatic playoff scenarios.

Rebranding: McGladrey to RSM

On November 5, 2015, the McGladrey Classic officially became the RSM Classic, reflecting the firm’s integration into RSM International. In that same transformative year, Kevin Kisner claimed a notable 22-under title and the lowest tournament score ever in a four-day format.

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Prestige and Finishing First on the PGA Calendar

From 2015 to 2019 (and again in 2021), the RSM Classic served as the PGA Tour’s final official stop of the year—awarding players one last shot at earning or retaining their cards—and often the last chance to qualify for invitationals like the Tournament of Champions. With the return to a calendar-year schedule in 2023, the tournament remains a critical fall event, giving competitors a final chance to secure FedExCup status.

Notable Champions and Record Performances

Several players have etched their names in the tournament’s history with remarkable results:

• Playoff thrillers: Robert Streb (2014 & 2020), Charles Howell III (2018), and Tyler Duncan (2019) all claimed titles in sudden-death duels.
  
• Historic scoring: Ludvig Åberg’s 2023 performance—253 for a record −29—now stands as the tournament’s lowest 72‑hole total.
  

A Tournament with Community Roots

Organized and hosted by the Davis Love Foundation, the RSM Classic has deep ties to St. Simons Island and its golfing community. It draws local pros, family spectators, and PGA Tour stars alike. With charitable outreach embedded in its mission, the event supports numerous local causes while promoting coastal tourism and Georgia’s golfing legacy.

Don’t miss next year’s edition of the RSM Classic—experience Sea Island’s autumn magic, world-class golf, and Georgia hospitality at its best. Secure your spot at this fall’s iconic finale—celebrate PGA Tour tradition and competitive excellence with us!

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