By Erin Evors, JIA Social Media Manager
The first annual Paulk Cup Classic was a success! Held recently on November 5 & 6, this inaugural two-day golf tournament honors Georgia golf legend Johnny Paulk and his lasting impact on the game of golf on Jekyll Island. As a co-founder, organizer, and participant of the Georgia-Florida Golf Classic for 40 years, Johnny’s legacy will continue to carry on through this annual tournament benefitting the Jekyll Island Foundation and supporting the island he so fondly cared for.
“The Paulk Cup Classic was a way for us to honor what Johnny’s done for golf on Jekyll and in the state as a whole,” says Jekyll Island Authority’s Director of Golf, Spencer Brookman.
While Johnny was the face of the Jekyll Island Golf Club throughout his illustrious career, his influence on golf will continue to be recognized beyond Jekyll Island. From the announcer at the 18th hole for the Master Tournament and two-time winner of the Georgia Section of PGA Merchandiser of the Year (Resort Category) to being a member of the Georgia State Golf Association Hall of Fame, Glynn County Sports Hall of Fame, and a life member with PGA of America, Johnny’s career may have taken him beyond Jekyll Island, but he represented the island wherever he went.
As Jekyll Island’s new, premier golf tournament, the Paulk Cup was officially unveiled during the opening ceremony by Johnny’s wife, Virginia, son, John D., and grandson, Jack. With a total of 132 participants, the tournament wrapped up with team members, Adrian Fletcher, Brad Smith, Gannon Hall, and Lon Barfield taking home first place in this year’s tournament with a score of 111.
Details for the 2021 Paulk Cup Classic will be announced soon, but you can still contribute to JIF’s mission of raising funds for conservation, preservation and education initiatives on Jekyll Island, by clicking HERE or text GIVEJEKYLL + $ amount to (844) 889-2692 and follow the prompts.
