American Century Championship: 10 Powerful Reasons to Attend 2025
What Makes the American Century Championship a Must-See Celebrity Golf Event
The American Century Championship is an annual celebrity golf tournament held every July at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course in Nevada, featuring over 80 sports and entertainment stars competing for a $600,000 prize purse using a Modified Stableford scoring system.
Key Tournament Facts:
- When: July 9-13, 2025
- Where: Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, Stateline, Nevada
- Prize Money: $600,000 total purse
- Participants: 80+ celebrities from sports and entertainment
- Scoring: Modified Stableford format (10 points for double eagle, 8 for hole-in-one)
- Broadcast: NBC, GOLF Channel, and Peacock
- Tickets: $40-50 daily, $150 weeklong pass
Since 1990, this tournament has become the premier celebrity golf event in America. It’s not just about golf – it’s where you’ll see NFL quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce battling NBA stars like Stephen Curry on one of the most scenic courses in the country.
The event sits at over 6,200 feet above sea level on the shores of Lake Tahoe, creating a stunning backdrop that’s made it a television favorite. Rick Rhoden holds the record with eight championship wins, while the tournament has donated over $2.25 million to local charities since 2009.
What sets this apart from other celebrity tournaments? The Modified Stableford scoring system encourages aggressive play, creating more excitement than traditional stroke play. Plus, the signature events like the Long Drive Challenge and Charity Chip Challenge add extra entertainment value beyond the main competition.
History & Community Impact
The American Century Championship began in 1990 and has grown into the richest celebrity golf event in the world – and that’s just the beginning of its incredible story.
Rick Rhoden became the tournament’s first legend almost immediately. This former baseball pitcher didn’t just win his debut in 1990 – he went on to dominate the event like no one before or since. With eight championship titles between 1991 and 2009, Rick set a record that still stands today. His competitive spirit showed everyone that celebrity golf could be serious business.
Mark Mulder, another baseball star, proved that America’s pastime produces great golfers. He’s the only player to win three consecutive titles at Edgewood, which highlights how baseball players seem to have that perfect hand-eye coordination for golf. The precision and focus required for both sports clearly overlap.
Here’s something fascinating about the champions: football players have claimed 12 victories over the years, making them the most successful sport represented. Baseball follows with 11 wins, while ice hockey has produced 6 champions. Basketball and acting have each contributed 2 winners, and tennis legend Mardy Fish represents his sport as the lone tennis champion.
The tournament’s location at 6,230 feet above sea level creates a unique challenge. The thin mountain air means golf balls fly farther than usual, which can be both exciting and terrifying for celebrity competitors.
What really sets this tournament apart is its heart for the community. Since 2009, the American Century Championship has donated over $2.25 million to more than 90 Tahoe-area nonprofits. That’s real impact that’s helped over 12,000 people in the local area.
In 2024 alone, the tournament distributed $124,000 plus an additional $75,000 to 26 different nonprofits. This isn’t just a golf tournament that happens to give back – it’s become a community cornerstone that locals count on year after year. Scientific research on charitable sports events shows how tournaments like this create lasting benefits that go far beyond the immediate donations.
2025 American Century Championship Event Details
Get ready for an amazing week at Lake Tahoe! The American Century Championship returns July 9-13, 2025, at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course. This incredible gathering of sports and entertainment stars will compete for the richest prize fund in celebrity golf – a whopping $600,000.
That prize money isn’t just for show. The winner walks away with $150,000, while second place takes home $70,000 and third gets $40,000. With that kind of money on the line, these celebrities will be bringing their A-game to every shot.
The television coverage is fantastic this year, with NBC, GOLF Channel, and Peacock providing comprehensive live coverage from Friday through Sunday. Whether you’re a traditional TV watcher or prefer streaming, you’ll have multiple ways to catch all the action.
If you’re planning to attend in person, the weeklong badge at $150 is the best deal. It’s like getting two days free compared to buying daily tickets. Plus, you can come and go throughout the week without worrying about ticket logistics.
The tournament honors our military with complimentary tickets for military personnel and veterans during the opening days. It’s touches like these that make the American Century Championship more than just a golf tournament.
One important note: the clear bag policy is strictly enforced, so definitely check the guidelines before you pack.
Ticketing for the American Century Championship
All ticket sales are online-only through Eventbrite. No exceptions, no gate sales. You don’t want to drive all the way to Lake Tahoe only to find out you can’t get in.
The pricing is straightforward. Wednesday and Thursday tickets cost $40 each, while Friday through Sunday will run you $50 per day. The weekend premium makes sense since that’s when the real drama unfolds.
That $150 weeklong pass is the same price as just three daily tickets. You’re essentially getting Wednesday and Thursday for free. Plus, kids under 10 get in free with a paying adult, making it a great family event.
The no-refund policy means all sales are final, so make sure your plans are solid before you purchase.
Active duty military and veterans can claim complimentary opening-day tickets through official verification channels. It’s a wonderful way the tournament gives back to those who’ve served our country.
Before you pack, check out the Allowed & Not Allowed guidelines. The rules are clear, but it’s better to know ahead of time than get surprised at security.
Schedule for the American Century Championship
The tournament schedule is packed with more than just the main competition rounds. Practice rounds are some of our favorite times to attend – the celebrities are more relaxed, they interact freely with fans, and you might catch a signed ball or glove.
The Long Drive Challenge never fails to get the crowd pumped up. There’s something thrilling about watching these elite athletes release their power and see who can bomb it the farthest. The Korbel Hole-In-One Contest adds that perfect mix of skill and luck that can completely change someone’s tournament.
Tee times are staggered throughout each day, which is great for spectators. You can either follow your favorite celebrity around the course or find the perfect viewing spot and watch different groups come through. The 18th green is always popular for dramatic finishes.
Gate hours are designed to let you catch all the action while having time to explore Lake Tahoe. Wednesday and Thursday gates open at 8:00 AM and close at 4:00 PM, while Friday through Sunday start at 7:00 AM but wrap up by 2:00 PM. Those weekend times make sense due to television scheduling.
The award ceremony on Sunday afternoon is the perfect cap to an incredible week. Watching the champion receive that trophy and the $150,000 check never gets old.
Celebrity Field & Past Champions
The celebrity field for the American Century Championship is absolutely stacked every year. Stephen Curry’s 2023 victory was pure magic – you could see how much winning this tournament meant to him. His celebration reminded everyone that even NBA superstars get genuinely excited about conquering new challenges.
Tony Romo has been one of the most consistent competitors over the years. That quarterback precision and mental toughness from his NFL days translates beautifully to golf, and his 2018 victory proved that football players can hold their own against athletes from other sports.
Having Annika Sorenstam in the field brings a completely different dynamic. As one of the greatest female golfers ever, she lifts the overall quality of play and creates fascinating storylines.
The newer additions keep things fresh. Alex Rodriguez brings incredible hand-eye coordination from his 696 home runs, while Albert Pujols showed up with the consistency that produced 703 homers. Trevor Lawrence represents the new generation of NFL quarterbacks.
The current tournament record of 84 points was set by Billy Joe Tolliver in 2010 – just one point better than Mardy Fish’s winning 83 points in 2024. Those scores show how competitive this field has become.
Magical moments like when Stephen Curry makes a hole in one are exactly why we love this tournament. The pure joy reminds us that sports are about those unexpected moments of brilliance.
Tournament Format & Signature Contests
What makes the American Century Championship so thrilling to watch? It’s all about the Modified Stableford scoring system that turns traditional golf on its head. Instead of counting every stroke against you, this format rewards bold play and creates those jaw-dropping moments we all love to see.
The scoring system is brilliantly designed to encourage risk-taking. A double eagle nets you 10 points – that’s enough to vault from the middle of the pack into contention with one incredible shot. Hole-in-ones are worth 8 points, while eagles give you 5 points and birdies add 3 to your total. Even making par keeps you moving forward with 1 point.
Here’s where it gets interesting: bogeys give you zero points, but they don’t hurt you. Double bogeys only cost you 2 points, which means players are willing to take chances they’d never consider in regular stroke play. Why lay up when you could go for the green and potentially gain 5 points with an eagle?
The tournament wasn’t always this exciting. From 1990 to 2003, they used traditional stroke play, but everything changed in 2004 when they switched to Modified Stableford. Suddenly, players were attacking pins instead of playing safe, and the entertainment value skyrocketed.
But the main tournament is just part of the show. The Long Drive Challenge showcases pure athletic power, with celebrities trying to outdrive each other in front of cheering crowds. The elevation at Edgewood Tahoe helps these bombs carry even farther – we’re talking drives that would be impossible at sea level.
The Charity Chip Challenge brings out the finesse side of the game. Players show off their touch around the greens while raising money for local charities. This contest often produces the most dramatic moments as celebrities attempt to hole out from tricky positions with thousands of dollars on the line.
Beat the Bot is a newer addition that’s become a fan favorite. Players compete against an actual golf-swing robot to raise funds for charity. In 2024, nearly $25,000 was raised for the Stowers Institute, with $500 donated for each player who managed to outperform the mechanical challenger.
The Korbel Hole-In-One Contest offers the ultimate prize opportunity. Just ask Tim Brown, who won a MasterCraft X24 boat worth over $200,000 with one perfect swing. These contests prove that any shot could be life-changing at the American Century Championship.
Planning Your Trip to Edgewood Tahoe
Getting ready for your American Century Championship trip? We’ve got the essential details to help you make the most of your time at this incredible tournament.
First, let’s talk about the clear bag policy that’s strictly enforced at Edgewood Tahoe. You’ll need to bring only clear bags up to backpack size, including clear purses. This policy keeps everyone safe and speeds up entry lines.
Leave these items at home: non-clear bags, outside food and beverages, weapons, professional cameras with detachable lenses, chairs, umbrellas, and coolers. The tournament provides plenty of food options and the course has natural shade areas.
Parking can be tricky, especially during weekend rounds when the biggest crowds show up. The designated paid lots are your safest bet – don’t park on Lake Parkway because your car will get towed. Our advice? Arrive early and enjoy the morning mountain air while you walk to the course.
Here’s a fantastic tip: the free bike valet service provided by the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition. This service runs from 7:00 AM until as late as 6:00 PM each day, and it’s one of the best ways to get to the tournament. You’ll skip parking headaches while getting exercise and soaking in stunning Lake Tahoe views.
The tournament organizers have done an excellent job with handicap accessibility. There are designated parking areas close to entrances and accessible viewing locations throughout the course.
If you’re looking for a luxury experience, lodging packages through Edgewood Tahoe Resort are worth considering. Resort guests receive Guest Badges right at check-in, plus you’re already on-site. Call their Reservations Specialist at 888-881-8659 to explore packages that might include tournament access, dining credits, and other amenities.
More info about tips for traveling can help you plan the perfect sports travel experience.
The elevation at over 6,200 feet means you’ll need to prepare differently. UV exposure is much stronger, so bring sunscreen and a good hat. Mornings can be surprisingly cool even in July, so layer up. The dry mountain air will have you reaching for water more often, and you’ll notice golf balls flying much farther due to the thin air.
The course map shows all the best spectator areas and facilities, so study it before you arrive. This way, you can plan your route to catch your favorite celebrities and find perfect spots for Instagram-worthy shots with Lake Tahoe in the background.
How to Watch & Stay Connected
Whether you’re planning to attend the American Century Championship in person or catch the action from home, there are plenty of ways to stay connected to this incredible tournament. The television coverage has gotten better every year, capturing both the competitive spirit and fun atmosphere.
NBC takes the lead with comprehensive live coverage Friday through Sunday. Their production team showcases the stunning Lake Tahoe backdrop while keeping viewers engaged with player interviews and behind-the-scenes moments. GOLF Channel adds depth with additional coverage and expert analysis.
If you’re a cord-cutter or prefer streaming, Peacock has you covered with full tournament access. This is perfect when you’re out and about but don’t want to miss any drama. Best Streaming Option for Live Sports can help guide your streaming choices, though NBC’s multi-platform approach makes following the tournament straightforward.
The ACC Tahoe Golf app is absolutely essential. Available on both App Store and Google Play, this app provides real-time scores, player pairings, and course maps that make following the action much easier. Whether you’re walking the course or watching from your couch, the app keeps you updated with tournament statistics.
Social media brings its own energy to the tournament experience. The #ACCgolf hashtag becomes a virtual gathering place where fans share photos, celebrate great shots, and commiserate over missed putts. Following @ACChampionship gives you official updates plus fun behind-the-scenes moments that don’t make television.
The ACC Fantasy Golf contest has seen a 20% increase in participation year over year. The $10,000 grand prize donation to charity for the winner adds a charitable twist to testing your celebrity golf knowledge. It’s become another way fans engage beyond just watching.
The television broadcasts really shine when they capture unique American Century Championship moments. The boats lining the 17th hole create an incredible regatta atmosphere you won’t see at any other golf tournament. Players often toss souvenirs to fans in boats – these interactions remind you that this tournament has its own special personality.
We particularly enjoy the broadcast segments that dive into the charitable impact. These stories about local nonprofits and community support show that the American Century Championship means much more to Lake Tahoe than just a week of celebrity golf.
Frequently Asked Questions about the American Century Championship
Planning to attend the American Century Championship? We get a lot of questions from first-time visitors, so let’s clear up the most common concerns to help make your experience as smooth as possible.
What is the bag policy?
The tournament has a strict clear bag policy that catches many people off guard. You can only bring clear bags up to backpack size – this includes clear purses, clear backpacks, and clear tote bags. If you show up with your regular purse or backpack, you’ll need to take it back to your car or leave it outside the gates.
This policy exists for security reasons and to keep entry lines moving quickly. We recommend getting a clear bag ahead of time rather than scrambling to find one in the Lake Tahoe area. Most sporting goods stores carry them, and they’re pretty inexpensive.
The good news? Once you’re inside, there are plenty of concession stands and merchandise booths, so you won’t need to carry much with you anyway.
Where can I park or get dropped off?
Parking can be tricky during the American Century Championship, so plan ahead. There are designated paid parking lots around the Edgewood Tahoe area, but they fill up fast – especially on weekend days when the biggest crowds show up.
Here’s what you need to know: parking on Lake Parkway is absolutely prohibited and they will tow your car. Don’t risk it, even if you see an empty spot that looks tempting.
If you’re using Uber or Lyft, there are specific drop-off and pickup areas to manage the traffic flow. Your driver should know where these are, but it’s worth confirming when you book your ride.
Our favorite option? The free bike valet service provided by the Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition. It runs from 7:00 AM until as late as 6:00 PM each day, and you’ll skip all the parking headaches while getting to enjoy the beautiful Lake Tahoe scenery on your ride to the course.
How do military members claim complimentary tickets?
The tournament offers a wonderful benefit for those who’ve served our country – active duty military personnel and veterans can get complimentary tickets for the opening days (Wednesday and Thursday).
You’ll need to verify your military status through the official tournament channels, so don’t wait until the last minute. The process typically requires advance registration and proper military identification.
Contact the tournament organizers directly for the specific steps, as they handle this program carefully to ensure it benefits those who’ve truly served. It’s one of the nicest touches about this event – honoring military service while sharing the excitement of celebrity golf at Lake Tahoe.
Conclusion
What makes the American Century Championship truly special isn’t just the celebrity star power or the beautiful Lake Tahoe setting – it’s how this tournament has evolved into something meaningful for everyone involved. Over 35 years, we’ve watched Rick Rhoden dominate with his record eight victories, witnessed Stephen Curry’s pure joy after finally capturing his first title in 2023, and seen countless other memorable moments that remind us why sports bring people together.
The tournament’s impact goes far beyond entertainment. Since 2009, over $2.25 million has been donated to local nonprofits, directly helping more than 12,000 individuals in the Lake Tahoe community. That’s the kind of real-world difference that makes covering sports meaningful for us at Sports News 4 You.
What we find fascinating is how challenging this tournament really is for these elite athletes. Only five active professional athletes have ever won the American Century Championship in its entire history. The Modified Stableford scoring system might encourage aggressive play, but it doesn’t make the golf any easier when you’re competing at 6,200 feet above sea level with television cameras capturing every shot.
If you’re planning to attend the 2025 tournament, tickets are only sold online through Eventbrite – no gate sales means no last-minute decisions. The clear bag policy is strictly enforced, so plan accordingly. Download the ACC Tahoe Golf app before you arrive, and don’t forget that the high altitude means extra sunscreen and staying hydrated throughout the day.
The tournament runs July 9-13, 2025, with comprehensive coverage on NBC, GOLF Channel, and Peacock. Whether you’re following Tony Romo’s latest round, watching for another Stephen Curry celebration, or finding new celebrities trying their hand at competitive golf, this event delivers entertainment that’s hard to find anywhere else.
At Sports News 4 You, we appreciate how this tournament showcases the competitive spirit that drives athletes across all sports. The $600,000 prize purse keeps things serious, while the charitable giving and community impact show sports at their best. It’s exactly the kind of event that reminds us why we love covering the intersection of athletics, entertainment, and community involvement.
For more coverage of must-see sporting events throughout the year, check out our comprehensive guide to Top Sports Events where we break down the competitions that should be on every sports fan’s calendar.
