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Organizers pitch Magnolia Open disc golf tournament, project 500+ players and six-figure economic impact
Summary
Organizers of the Magnolia Open told trustees the event has grown to national scale, will add qualifying and collegiate events in April, and asked the Tourism Authority for sponsorship consideration ahead of registration and marketing deadlines.
Organizers of the Magnolia Open disc golf tournament told the Tourism Economic Development Authority on Feb. 25 that the event has grown to a national-level competition and that they expect more than 500 players this year, extending the schedule to multiple weekends in April.
"This event last year brought players from 12 states and 4 different countries," said Mike Sudibo, a representative of the Durant Disc Golf Club. Sudibo described a multi-event April schedule: a collegiate cup on April 5, a pro qualifying event on April 13, and a Magnolia Open preview event later in the month. He said organizers are adding Friday-night downtown events and other activations to encourage longer hotel stays.
Why it matters: Sudibo told trustees the tournament generated significant local spending in prior years. "We really feel like we hit that over 500 person mark. We're going to eclipse that very easily," he said, and later said organizers expect economic impact "north of this $142,000" figure shown in the materials; last year27s wrap-up reported about $124,000 in impact.
Details and funding: Sudibo said the tournament currently lists about 13 sponsors at a variety of levels and that last year the event sought a $10,000 grant from the authority. He described marketing and logistical needs (player merchandise, payout structure that follows PDGA guidelines, and additional RV parking near the lake) and asked the board to consider sponsorship before March so organizers can finalize registration and promotion.
Trustees discussed timing. Several said they would like to resolve audit issues before approving new grants but suggested a special session or expedited review could allow the authority to commit funding before registration deadlines.
Ending: Organizers asked for an expedited decision if possible so registration, travel planning and marketing can proceed; trustees said they will consider timing relative to the ongoing audit and may schedule a special meeting.
