The Masters had us on the edge of our couches and gave us an exciting finish, but now its time to move eastward to the more relaxed atmosphere of Hilton Head Island for the RBC Heritage.
After the 2011 Heritage was held without a title sponsor, the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) agreed to a four year deal with the PGA Tour to sponsor the Heritage from 2012 to 2016.
Arnold Palmer won the very first Heritage Classic held in 1969. Since then Jack Nicklaus, Johnny Miller, Tom Watson, Nick Faldo, Greg Norman and Nick Price have donned the Tartan Plaid Jacket that goes to the winner.
Davis Love III won the Heritage five times in his career and Hale Irwin won on three separate occasions.
The tournament is played over the Harbour Town Golf Links designed by Pete Dye with help from Jack Nicklaus in 1972. It features small greens, tight fairways and favors shot makers that can control their golf ball.
Hilton Head has long been a destination for snow birds seeking the laid back attitude of island life. It offers every amenity to please even the most jaded traveler.
Hilton Head and the Heritage annually draw a quality field even though it follows the pressure cooker atmosphere of the Masters. Players appreciate the beautiful surroundings and southern hospitality at the Sea Pines Resort.
The total purse this week is $5.8 million with $1.08 million to the winner.
Carl Pettersson won the 2012 RBC Heritage by five shots over Zach Johnson.
It can be seen on the Golf Channel both Thursday and Friday 4/18-19, 3:00-6:00 PM ET. Golf Channel will also provide early coverage on Saturday and Sunday 1:00-2:30 PM ET. CBS will pick up the coverage on the weekend 3:00-6:00 PM ET both Saturday and Sunday.