MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, S.C. -- The 48th Annual RBC Heritage Golf Tournament began with an opening ceremony on Hilton Head Island April 11. The tournament, April 11-13, is a yearly tradition on Hilton Head bringing together players from around the country.
The ceremony began with the past champion being presented with a Captain of Gentlemen Golfers plaque and then the tradition of hitting a golf ball into Calibogue Sound. Volunteers were dressed in plaid and kilts to honor Scottish traditions of the tournament.
The Heritage’s relationship with Scotland began in 1969 when Sea Pines founder Charles Fraser found a reference to the South Carolina Golf Club existing in 1786 and built the Heritage’s traditions on his research.
The ceremony had support from local military groups. The color guard from Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island and service members from the Tri-command participated in the ceremony. The pips and drum band from the Citadel performed in a parade along with members of the community.
The tournament officially commenced with a cannon blast symbolizing the opening of the games. The RBC Heritage tournament is deeply rooted in tradition and comes from a proud history of golf on Hilton Head Island.
The event maintains a military friendly atmosphere. In addition to the Tri-command presence in the ceremony, the three day event is open to all active duty military service members free of charge.