While Augusta may be the focal point for golf fans traveling to the C.S.R.A., surrounding areas also have events and attractions for visitors.
A prime example is Columbia County, where the Augusta National Women’s Amateur (ANWA) kicks off Masters Week events. The first practice round is today, April 2, at Champions Retreat Golf Club in Evans. It moves to the Augusta National Golf Club (ANGC) for the final round on April fifth.
“The foot traffic is a little bit smaller than obviously it is at the Augusta National with there not being as many tickets,” Shelly Blackburn, Executive Director of the Columbia County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CCCVB), told ABD. “But certainly, it has put our community on the map and has spotlighted a beautiful golf course within our community.”
She added that it can serve as a selling tool for the county.
“I think anytime you can showcase the beauty of your natural resources, it’s a huge enticement to people who are looking to relocate to the community.”
Blackburn said Columbia County sees a surge in visitors for Master Week, with visitors exploring outdoor recreation, dining, and shopping.
“While specific data is not disclosed on the amount of people that come to town, we do know that the economic impact extends far beyond just the golf course,” she said. “With local accommodations operating at peak capacity, our short-term rentals are flourishing, and our small businesses benefit from the increased customer traffic. Additionally, we know that these events generate significant tax revenue, which supports infrastructure and public services that benefit our residents year-round.”
Columbia County is also home to one of the top entertainment events. For the 21st year, Drive for Show, Rock Fore! Dough will be held April 8th at Evans Towne Center Park. This year’s lineup includes Brett Young and The Mason Jars.
The event may look like just a concert; however, Blackburn said it serves an important purpose.
“Rock Fore! Dough raises money for the First Tee of Augusta, which helps to teach the game of golf to young children, which I think is vitally important,” she said. “We know golf plays such a big part in our identity as a community, and what better way than to help to continue to grow the sport?”
According to the concert website, 100% of the proceeds directly benefit First Tee-Augusta, raising more than $1.8 million for the program.
One disappointment is that a popular venue, Savannah Rapids Pavilion, remains closed due to damage from Hurricane Helene. However, the county also offers the Exhibition Center in Grovetown and the Performing Arts Center as alternatives.
“People are going to see the landscape looks just a little different. Obviously, Hurricane Helene has significantly changed the look of things. But I think more than anything, people will see progress. They will see that, yes, we were hit with a hurricane, but we’ve been working very hard to get that cleaned up, and that we’ve made a lot of progress along the way, and then just how resilient our community is,” said Blackburn.
She added a message for all return visitors and newcomers.
“We have an incredible community. Here, we welcome you. Here, we have some of the warmest Southern hospitality you will ever find. Some incredible dining establishments, great places to shop, but more than anything, incredible people who are here to welcome you and to make your visit an incredible experience.”
For more information about Columbia County, visit www.visitcolumbiacountyga.com/
Tickets for Rock Fore! Dough can be purchased at https://rockforedough.com/
