2025 Schedule is Out

Apply now if you would like to participate in THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational (Women’s Field) or THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Invitational Presented by Rocket (Men’s Field).

 
 
 

THE JOHN SHIPPEN was established by Intersport to identify historical barriers to and expand upon Black representation in the sport of golf and create awareness, access and opportunities for persons of color in the business of sports.

The event is named after John Shippen, Jr., who was the first American-born golf professional and also the country's first Black golf professional. Shippen was bestowed PGA of America membership posthumously in 2009.

$84B

Dollar Industry

1%

of PGA of America Club
Professionals are Black

0

Black Current LPGA Tour Player

4

Black Current PGA TOUR Players

 

THE JOHN SHIPPEN is a vehicle to provide opportunities that can fundamentally increase diversity in golf on a national scale. The sport of golf is an $84 billion industry with more than two million golf-related jobs. However, less than one percent of PGA of America club professionals are Black, and only four current PGA Tour players are Black. However, less than one percent of PGA of America club professionals are Black. Currently, only four PGA TOUR and zero LPGA Tour players are Black

These statistics do not reflect a lack of talented Black golfers, but rather, they reflect limited access and resources. Historical barriers for Black golfers include: affordable and consistent access to championship courses, quality golf equipment, top-rated swing coaches, sponsorship and access to funding for housing and travel.

 

    • Format: 36 hole stroke play competition

    • Winner receives an exemption into the LPGA Tour’s 2025 Meijer LPGA Classic & the Dow Championship

    • Venue: Blythefield Country Club
      www.blythefieldcc.org

    • Location: Grand Rapids, MI

    • First & Final Rounds: June 3 – 4

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THE JOHN SHIPPEN Sports Business Summit creates awareness of opportunities within the sports industry for high school and college students of color. Attendees will have the opportunity to apply for paid internships and scholarships from event supporters at this FREE event.

ABOUT
JOHN SHIPPEN, JR?

The John Shippen event is named in honor of John Shippen, Jr., the first American-born golf professional and the first Black golf professional.

John Shippen, Jr., the original trailblazer for Blacks in golf, played in five U.S. Opens from 1896-1913.

Learn more

SPONSORS & PARTNERS

TELECAST

 

View the special telecast from CBS highlighting The John Shippen and its participants from 2024.