Tournament History
Over 100 years of amateur golf excellence
About the Dixie Amateur
The Dixie Amateur, one of the longest-running and most prestigious amateur golf tournaments in the United States, was first played in 1924 at the historic Miami Country Club. From the beginning, Florida's appeal as a year-round golf destination has helped the tournament attract elite amateur talent from across the country.
Since its revival in 1962, the Dixie Amateur has been played continuously at several top courses across South Florida, including The Links at Key Biscayne and the Golf Club of Miami. The tournament grew in stature, drawing the best amateur players in the country—many of whom went on to successful careers on the PGA Tour. Past champions include Andy Bean, Bruce Fleisher, Lanny Wadkins, Nolan Henke, Len Mattiace, and Jesper Parnevik.
The Dixie Amateur is organized and conducted by ClubLink, which owns Eagle Trace, Palm Aire Golf Course, and more than 50 other championship courses in Florida, Ontario, and Quebec. Over the years, ClubLink courses have hosted many top-level amateur championships, as well as PGA Tour, LPGA, Champions Tour, Nationwide Tour, and Canadian Tour events.
Tournament Timeline
Tournament Founded
The Dixie Amateur, one of the longest-running and most prestigious amateur golf tournaments in the United States, was first played at the historic Miami Country Club. Florida's appeal as a year-round golf destination helped attract elite amateur talent from across the country.
The Golden Era
Early champions included notable names such as Frank Strafaci, Earl Christianson, Frank Perpich, Al Besselink, Bill Hyndman III, and future Masters champion Doug Ford.
Temporary Pause
After the Miami Country Club closed in 1953, the event was temporarily discontinued.
Tournament Revival
The Dixie Amateur was revived in 1962 and has been played continuously since at several top courses across South Florida, including The Links at Key Biscayne and the Golf Club of Miami. The tournament grew in stature, drawing the best amateur players in the country—many of whom went on to successful careers on the PGA Tour. Past champions include Andy Bean, Bruce Fleisher, Lanny Wadkins, Nolan Henke, Len Mattiace, and Jesper Parnevik.
Move to Bonaventure Resort
In 1990, the tournament moved to the Bonaventure Resort and shifted to December, aligning with the holiday break. This change allowed more collegiate players to compete and significantly elevated the strength and depth of the field.
Senior Division Added
The Senior Division (ages 55+) was introduced. Steve Earsley of Stuart, Florida, captured the inaugural title and successfully defended it in 1998.
Women's Division Launched
The Women's Division was launched and has since drawn many of the top female amateurs in the world. Meaghan Francella won the first edition, narrowly defeating future LPGA star Paula Creamer. Notably, 2007 champion Lexi Thompson went on to become the youngest winner in LPGA history at age 16.
ClubLink Acquisition
In 2011, ClubLink acquired the Dixie Amateur, bringing a renewed commitment to enhancing the player experience. The tournament now takes place at the renowned Eagle Trace Golf Club, continuing its proud tradition of excellence and competitive spirit.
Mid-Master Division
The Mid-Master Division (ages 40–54) was added, offering a competitive and age-appropriate environment for highly skilled amateurs in that age range.
Continuing Excellence
The Dixie Amateur continues its century-long tradition of excellence with multiple divisions competing each December at Eagle Trace Golf Club, maintaining its status as one of the premier amateur golf tournaments in the United States.