The Road to the LPGA Returns: Island Resort Championship Marks 14 Years of Elite competition with Epson Tour Event
The Island Resort Championship has long been a proving ground for aspiring LPGA professionals, and this year marks its 14th iteration at the Sweetgrass Golf Club in Harris, Michigan. As part of the Epson Tour, the event offers 144 golfers the chance to compete for a $225,000 purse and, more importantly, a coveted spot on the LPGA Tour.
For me, playing at Sweetgrass was an unforgettable experience. The course, known for its pristine fairways and challenging greens, tested every aspect of my game. The rolling terrain, strategically placed bunkers, and the ever-present Michigan breeze made every shot a calculated decision. But beyond the technical aspects, there was something magical about walking the same fairways where future LPGA stars hone their craft.
The Island Resort Championship has grown in stature over the years, attracting top talent from around the world. The tournament’s history is filled with dramatic finishes, breakthrough performances, and moments that define careers. Last year, inclement weather shortened the event to two rounds, but the excitement never wavered. This year, with clear skies expected, the competition promises to be even fiercer.
One of the standout aspects of the event is the community involvement. The Hannahville Indian Community, which owns and operates the Island Resort & Casino, plays a significant role in making the championship a success. Volunteers, local businesses, and golf enthusiasts come together to create an atmosphere that is both welcoming and competitive.
As I reflect on my time at Sweetgrass, I can’t help but appreciate the course’s design. The par-5 18th hole, with its risk-reward layout, was particularly memorable. Standing on the tee, I had to decide whether to go for the green in two or lay up and play it safe. That moment encapsulated everything I love about golf—the strategy, the execution, and the thrill of competition.
For the players competing in this year’s Island Resort Championship, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Epson Tour’s Race for the Card ensures that only the most consistent performers earn their LPGA membership. With 15 LPGA cards up for grabs this season, every stroke matters.
As the tournament unfolds, I’ll be watching closely, cheering for the next generation of LPGA stars. And who knows? Maybe one day, I’ll return to Sweetgrass, not just as a spectator, but as a competitor once again.
About Island Resort & Casino
Located in Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula 15 minutes west of Escanaba, Island Resort & Casino is one of the Midwest’s largest golf, casino and entertainment resort destinations. The resort features over 450 guest rooms, more than 1,200 of the latest slots, a poker room, various gaming tables and a bingo hall, two championship golf courses, the luxurious Drift Spa, an RV Park, a headline entertainment showroom, a dedicated Sportsbook space, a pool with waterpark features, a customizable, expansive convention space and enough dining choices to please every palate. The Island Resort & Casino is truly your total resort destination. It is easily accessible via two regional airports in Escanaba and Marquette, connecting through Detroit, Saginaw, Lansing, or Grand Rapids. Plan your stay today, then get ready to enjoy your total experience at the Island! For more information, visit www.islandresortandcasino.com.
About the Epson Tour
The Epson Tour is the official qualifying tour of the LPGA Tour and enters its 45th competitive season in 2025. With the support of entitlement partner Seiko Epson Corporation, the Tour’s mission is to prepare the world’s best female professional golfers for a successful career on the LPGA Tour. In the last decade, the Epson Tour has grown from 15 tournaments and $1.6 million in prize money to $5 million awarded across 20 events in 2025. In all, 402 LPGA Tour titles have been won by Epson Tour alumni, including 49 major championships. Follow the Epson Tour at www.epsontour.com, as well as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Contact:
Tony Mancilla, Tournament Co-chairman
Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass
906-723-2000
tmancilla@islandresortandcasino.com
Bill Cuebas
Bill Cuebas is the Co-founder/Publisher of Ignite Golf Network and co-host of the weekly golf talk radio show, Biggs Golf Talk. After spending more than a decade working in PR and Communications within the golf industry, Bill knows what drives the professionals and customers and actively seeks to provide the communication and input needed to help industry leaders be successful in presenting these things to the consumers. Bill knows that having a passion for something increases the desire and ability to do the best you can do. This passion has allowed Bill to combine his love of golf and country in a unique way with his charitable work with different organizations. Bill’s years in law enforcement gives him strong communication skills and a keen understanding of how to read people which are invaluable tools when seeking to promote and grow a business.
