Tuesday, June 29, 2021

2021 Play With Pete Invitational at Inverness Club - How to Enter and All the Details

The legendary Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio is a Camelot of golf.  It's hosted the most prestigious tournaments in the world, including 12 major championships.  Jack Nicklaus, Bobby Jones, Sam Snead, and a Who's Who of the game's greatest players have all competed here.

And on August 4th, four of you will become a part of Inverness Club's storied 118 year history, and leave your own footprints on this hallowed ground.

When you play Inverness Club it becomes a part of your soul.  It's the kind of course that makes you feel like you've gone back in time, with sloping fairways, slanted greens, and masterful bunkering.  Inverness is a perfectly manicured labyrinth maze with pitfalls lurking at every corner and the most satisfying rewards if you maneuver around with skill and poise.

 

Jones made his first U.S. Open appearance at Inverness Club.  So did Nicklaus as a 17-year old kid in 1957 (and just a few years ago Jack called Inverness the best golf course in the entire Midwest).

Legends of all generations have fond memories and reverence for this 1903 Donald Ross design on Dorr Street.  Byron Nelson was selected as the head pro here in 1940 (beating out Ben Hogan).

Ted Ray and Hale Irwin won the first and last U.S. Opens here.  Bob Tway and Paul Azinger are PGA Championship winners at Inverness.  Hogan, Snead, Harry Vardon, Arnold Palmer, and countless other golf luminaries all forever embodied in Inverness lore.

Inverness Club also holds the distinction of being the only course in history to host the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, U.S. Amateur, U.S. Senior Open, and U.S. Junior Amateur.  And in September, Inverness will host the 17th Solheim Cup, where patriotism and national pride fuel the fire among the best female golfers in the world.

The inaugural Play with Pete Invitational was at Oakland Hills Country Club in 2018, and it's grown astronomically ever since.  So much so that we're looking at something like a PGAPappas Tour much sooner than later, with Play With Pete Invitationals every month or every other month from historic courses all around the country.  Interest keeps growing from courses, sponsors, partners, and of course the stars - you, to be a part of Play With Pete.

 

The last few years alone, I've received over 1,000 emails and DMs on twitter and Instagram to participate in each Play With Pete Invitational, and I'm especially excited about this year edition from Inverness. I can promise you right now, Inverness Club will be an anchor site for Play With Pete Invitationals moving forward.  By any and every standard or measure, Inverness Club is one of the world's greatest venues.

 

With the Solheim Cup starting just a few weeks after Play With Pete at Inverness, the players this year are going to have the additional dramatic treat of playing a tournament set-up.  Because it's the Solheim Cup, that's going to mean some of the easier holes might play even easier, and the harder holes even harder.

 

I'm excited to also share with you this year Play With Pete at Inverness will have at least one lady in the group.  Women's golf is every bit as competitive and inspiring as the men's game, yet it remains largely overlooked by the media.  And I can't think of anything better than ladies and gentleman playing the game we all love side-by-side, on one of the world's most iconic courses just a few weeks before the Solheim Cup kicks off.

Play With Pete Invitational at Inverness Club will be Wednesday, August 4th 2021.  When the players arrive they'll meet and greet and I'll start handing out some of the swag they'll be receiving (more on that in a bit).

Your day will start with a personal tour from the club historian of the spectacular Inverness Clubhouse (which could legitimately be called a museum).  It's absolutely fascinating, and feel free to take photos and videos throughout.  I'll also be capturing pictures and videos of the four players throughout the entire day.

 

After your tour wraps up you'll enjoy a fantastic lunch in the Ted Ray Pub in the Clubhouse.  The Ted Ray Pub is a living tribute to Ray holding off Vardon to win the 1920 U.S. Open at Inverness, and is perched above the 18th green with a ridiculously gorgeous view of the course.  And when lunch is finished, you'll head over to the range for a warm-up, and then start your round shortly after that.

But wait, you know there's more.

You'll also know what it's like to be a pro golfer for a day, because you're going to be sponsored by some of the biggest names in golf.

Your choice of any new pair of 2021 FootJoy golf shoes will be waiting for you on arrival so you can walk this historic course in comfort and style.  You'll be able to choose from the new FootJoy HyperFlex, Premiere, Tour X, Pro SL, Pro SL Carbon, Stratos, or Traditions golf shoes.  And to round it off you'll also receive new pairs of FootJoy golf gloves.

Titleist will also be providing all the golf balls you need, with multiple dozens for each player along with some other surprises.  You'll be able to choose from the new Pro V1, Pro V1x, AVX, or whatever ball model you play.  And this year the balls will have the PGAPappas logo on them for the first time, which is pretty, pretty cool.

There's even more Titleist swag for the players, but I'm going to keep it a secret for now, because honestly it's going to be wildly fun and I want to see the shocks on everyone's face live and in person.

 

Like always, I'm going to capture all the action not only for the players, but also for everyone following along on twitter and Instagram.

The entire event will be livestreamed, and I'll also have pics, videos, player interviews, jubilant triumphs, crushing defeats, and some incredible insight into Inverness' championship personality throughout the day.

 

We'll even have chances for all of you following along to win prizes, as well at surprise contests for the players competing.  It's going to be an absolutely unforgettable day and insanely amazing experience for all.

After the round is finished, we'll all regroup back at the Inverness Clubhouse to have drinks, share stories about the day, and no doubt have memories and new friendships that will last a lifetime. 

 

So how do you enter to join my Play with Pete Invitational at Inverness Club?  Same as it's always been.  Just leave a comment here on my blog or on twitter or Instagram, or DM me, or email me and tell me why you want to be one of the four players to join this event and play at Inverness.  (NOTE: Because of the volume of entries coming in and wanting to read and reply to all of you, I'll only be able to accept entries through this Friday, July 2nd.)

Over the last three years I've read messages from people in every state in the U.S., even from other countries wanting to join Play with Pete.  And again for this one, I welcome everyone from all over the world.  You'll have to make your own transportation to get here, but once you step on Inverness Club grounds, it's all taken care of and just get ready for the time of your life. 

 

It's that simple, I'll read every single comment, DM, or email, and I'll announce the four players on Tuesday, July 6th. 

 

Goosebumps.  Chills.  And your chance to play Inverness Club, one of the most storied major championship venues in history... awaits.

31 comments:

  1. Why it would be a dream to be picked to play The Inverness with you. For one. This should be at the top if not top 3 bucket list course for anyone living in Ohio. In addition. Inverness club would be a gem to play and a lifetime memory not only because of the prestige and history behind it being one of the oldest venues that have hosted championship events. But because of the fact it was remodeled a few years ago in an effort to restore some of that Donald Ross charm.

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    1. Really is one of the most historic and iconic courses in golf history. And you can feel the history all over the grounds, it's visceral. Can't wait to get this going. 👍

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  2. To be very frank, I always heard about how beautiful the Inverness in Toledo was and being only 45 minutes away from it, living in Southeast Michigan, I would love to take the drive and play there sometime, but again living in Michigan, it did not seem to be the best idea for me to have a membership there.
    Golf to me is life, I love it with a passion and in order of priority, to me it only sits behind the Almighty, my kids and my wife.
    I am a high handicap player that would forever treasure the chance to play the invitational at the Inverness.

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    1. Thanks for your message Elson. Can tell you now it surpasses all expectations, and that's saying a lot.👍

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    2. That is awesome, even if not picked to play on the invitational, I am hoping to find my way to at the inverness club some time sooner than later.

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  3. I'm a 16 handicap bogey golfer that would absolutely love to see how a course like Inverness would challenge my game (it could get ugly but I'd still enjoy the journey). It's a lifelong dream to play on a US Open/major level course, and I'd like to match my son, who's played Chambers Bay. Being from the Detroit area, Inverness has always been on my bucket list (along with Oakland Hills and Muirfield Village), and winning a spot in the Play with Pete Invitational would be my best and only opportunity to actually play a classic private course! Thank you for the chance to enter, and looking forward to hearing more about the Invitational.

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    1. Thanks John, and yes it's tough for any golfer, but as you allude to also a classic track that takes your breath away with its beauty and challenge for all skills. 👍

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  4. It would be amazing to play one of the greatest courses in our home state. Plus I already have the day off from work. P.s this time I did cut and paste

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  5. Awesome of you to put on the event, Pete! Good luck to all participants!

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    1. It's going to be absolutely awesome. And we're going to livestream the entire event this year! 👍

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  6. Hey Pete,
    Honestly adding the 2 LPGA players and promoting equality in the game is tremendously huge and speaks loud volumes. Golf has changed my life for the better. It has helped me return to the game after losing contact with it. I am not the best.. maybe the top 10 worst but man I wouldn't trade a day and round with Pete and the crew for all the lobster rolls in Maine. For many years I was severely guilted for my love of the game. Sadly my clubs were stolen during my last military move a few years ago. They weren't fancy.. but nonetheless I enjoyed the hell out of them.. if I am lucky to be chosen I may need to share a club or 2 with my peers. I am a proud disabled Veteran who loves life, his family, and the great game of golf. I currently work as a phlebotomist after 17 years of military service as a deployable medic. Blessed to have saved 2 lives and helped out many in peril. Please consider me as a guest this year at Inverness.
    Respectfully,
    J. Mainella
    USCG Veteran
    401 Golfer

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    1. I’m a vet also and fortunate not to be disabled. I have some clubs I’d be happy to give you if we can arrange getting them to you. I’m sure Pete could hook you up with a brand new, fitted set but in the event no one steps forward, I am glad too. These are mostly 4-6 years old, have oversized grips, and are a little longer than traditional clubs because I use a single plan swing with limited turn due to complicated back fusion. Let me know. BTW, I’m in Idaho.

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    2. Hi BigCat, thanks for your post, very thoughtful and truly appreciate that. Can tell golf means a lot to you, and that's how we're all connected in one big way for sure. And very awesome that you've saved lives. I can't imagine how fulfilling that must be.👍

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  7. Impressive Course with History...Great Opportunity for the Winners!!!

    Cheers,
    MK

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    1. It's going to be a crazy awesome day. And yes, livestreaming the entire day, and will have some surprises for everyone watching along as well. 👍

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  8. Pete, I’ve communicated with you in the past and told you the stories about being a vet and coming from a military family with service dating back to the Revolutionary War. So enough about patriotism as a reason to include me. Why I’d like to ask is that you include me in this year’s event at Inverness follows: I’m 77 so my chances to do this are limited. While not disabled I play with an artificial ankle, knee, and shoulder as well as a spinal fusion from L2-S2 and a trending 27 handicap. I care for a wife with multiple autoimmune diseases while also volunteering at the First Tee of Idaho and St. Luke’s Hospital system, including the COVID-19 vaccine clinics. But, enough pulling on the heart strings, I’m just a really, fun guy that loves golf and giving back. I’m grateful for all the blessings I’ve enjoyed during my life, this would be a cap on golf experiences. Thanks for your consideration.

    Peter Lucier,
    Just an old E5, US Army, living in Boise, ID

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    1. Peter, I've definitely enjoyed our conversations, and wow all the credit to you for playing through all those injuries. I tell friends all the time, I don't care if the day ever comes that I shoot 200, if I can play, I'm going to play, and it's because like you I just have a complete and full love of the game. Appreciate your very genuine and reflective post here. 👍

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  9. Pete,

    Undoubtably everyone on all of the mediums you are offering this opportunity on may be deserving in some way, shape or form. Me, falling in love with the game 10 years ago (29 years old) was one of the best decision I will ever make. How every person, can enjoy this game regardless of genetics is quite incredible. I am a complete self-taught lefty thanks to Phil Mickelson and Bubba Watson on YouTube and now sporting a 9–10 handicap. Enjoying the heck out of a round, being out on the course in nature, analyzing each hole with your fellow golfers, the banter, the drive to get better and the want for everyone to succeed. There is nothing like it. I would love the opportunity to visit an historic course with yourself, and my fellow brother and sisters as memories are what you get to take with you when it’s all said and done. Regardless if I am chosen or not, I look forward to catching you at Manakiki one of these days soon as I’m right down the street in Mentor. Cheers Pete keep spreading the love and the joys of this game.

    - Mike

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    1. Mike, appreciate your kind words, means a lot truly. Self taught lefty, man that's having the odds stacked against you, right? Ha. Hope you've brought that up to Phil and Bubba, they seem like two of the more engaging personalities on twitter. Inverness is Camelot, I've made no secret of my fondness for this place. And yes will put all I have into making it one of the most memorable experiences ever for the four players. And always at Manakiki, bound to meet up there! 👍

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  10. Thanks everyone for your comments. It's been a lot of fun reading your emails, and posts here, and DMs on twitter and Instagram. Will be replying to everyone for sure, just taking a bit more time with all. 👍

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  11. Well, As the ol saying my dad used to always repeat, you can't win if you don't play so I guess I'll enter for a shot. Been entering all of your giveaways for about a 2 years now. While I do consider myself a very unlucky person, I guess dads advice resonates in by brain. For about the same amount of time I've been entering your giveaways, my basement has flooded, water has leaked in my house in multiple spots, the ol water main into the house burst...I could keep going but I won't lol. My dad, a man of great dadism's recently told me and I quote "son...if it wasn't for bad luck I don't think you would have any luck at all"...So yea, might as well put this 9 handicap and former golf course worker name in the hat.
    Thanks Pete, hopefully my dry humor wasn't too much

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    1. Hey Dana, ha, actually always enjoy all kinds of humor. Gets us through a lot for sure. And A1 for dad on his advice and humor too. 👍

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  12. I grew up playing with my grandfathers (mid 90s to early 2000s) and during that time Hale Irwin was cleaning up on the Champions Tour. We all became big fans of his and I remember my grandfather recounting Irwin’s ‘79 US Open win at Inverness, his stumble across the finish line, the tree that magically appeared overnight, and a sweet-swinging Freddie Couples busting onto the scene. I’ve admired the course from afar since and would relish the opportunity not just to play, but to pay homage to this amazing course on behalf of my grandfathers (one of whom is no longer with us). They gave me so much, including a love for the game and it would mean a lot to be able to experience a course that has been part of our shared golf history, even if just in a seemingly small way.

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    1. Pauls thanks for your post, and it's obvious you know your history and Inverness has been a big part of your families love of the game. 👍

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  13. I SO want to apply to play with Pete, the dates are not within my schedule this year with my Step Son getting married. I have followed and chatted with you for years and was hoping beyond hope to be able to do this one day. WE are going to make it happen at some point....good luck to those entering...GODSPEED

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    1. First, congrats on step son getting married Donny! And have enjoyed our chats very much as well. We'll be livestreaming entire event with surprises along the way for everyone watching along, so there will be chances to be a part of it for everyone. 👍

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  14. Hey Pete, late again. Was on vacation. But let me just say that you have out done yourself this time. Inverness with a Solheim setup is going to be epic. I would love to play. Golf as been a large part of my life my Dad and uncles played. Lots of group tourneys and laughs. Now my two sons, 2 nephews and niece play. My old son is a PGA Pro and a course and Richmond, Va. and my youngest plays for college team. Their golf accolades fair out weigh mine and I’m ok with that. They love the game as much as I do and enjoy playing with pretty much anybody. Both grew up playing the local 9-hole course with the old-guys at the club. The stories and life lessons they learned during this time are priceless. That is what golf is. Lessons and stories strung together inside a game that you savor every time you get to play.

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  16. Thanks sincerely to everyone who sent me emails, DMs, comments for the 2021 Play With Pete Invitational at Inverness Club.

    Read and replied to all, and thoroughly enjoyed every moment. You inspire me more than you’ll ever know, and I appreciate all of you.

    Thank you.

    The 4 players in the 2021 #PlayWithPeteInvitational from Inverness Club are Brad Smagala, Caitlyn R., Josh Gargiulo, and Kurtis Goff. Congrats to all! Encourage you to swap emails, numbers. And start getting ready.

    It’s going to be an insanely awesome day!

    We’re going to live-stream this entire event for everyone. Pics, vids, player interviews, crazy surprises, and some wild prizes for those following along with all the action. Exploding head

    #PlayWithPeteInvitational from Inverness Club, August 4th, 2021.

    Let’s go baby!!! 🔥🔥🔥👍

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  17. Congrats everyone, enjoy the great outing.

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