Three tournaments and a national golf media gathering put Highlands County’s golfing tradition in the spotlight
SEBRING, Fla. (October 8, 2026) – Before some of golf’s biggest names were playing on national television, they were competing in tournaments much like the ones coming to Sebring this fall. And for Highlands County residents, that means an opportunity to watch talented golfers chasing their professional dreams right in our own backyard thanks to funding provided by Visit Sebring/Highlands County Tourist Development Council (TDC).
From October-December, the Sebring area will host three competitive golf tournaments, along with a gathering of golf journalists and industry professionals from across the country. Together, these events reinforce something longtime local golfers already know: Highlands County has earned a reputation as a proving ground for rising golf talent.
Future Pros Take to the Fairways
The action begins October 12–14 with the Visit Sebring Classic, followed by the Citrus Golf Trail Open, November 18–20. Both tournaments will be played on the Deer Run Course at Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club in Sebring and are part of the Minor League Golf Tour (MLGT).
“Think of the MLGT as a steppingstone for aspiring professionals,” said Visit Sebring’s Casey Hartt. “Players compete for prize money, experience and opportunities to advance their careers, with many working toward the Korn Ferry Tour and ultimately the PGA TOUR.”
Both tournaments welcome professional golfers and qualified amateurs with a USGA handicap of six or lower. Residents are encouraged to come watch the competition, with free spectator admission. Learn more or register at MinorLeagueGolf.com.
A Tournament with a Remarkable History
The year’s final tournament may have the most impressive history of all. The 72nd Citrus Golf Trail Ladies Invitational, formerly the Harder Hall Ladies Invitational, returns December 28–31 to Sun ‘N Lake Golf Club.
First played in 1956, this tournament has helped showcase generations of talented female golfers, including players who went on to become some of the biggest names in the sport. Nelly Korda, Joanne Carner, Cristie Kerr, Brittany Lincicome, Morgan Pressel, Stacy Lewis and Charley Hull are among the notable players associated with its history. When Harder Hall Country Club closed in 2021, support from Visit Sebring/Highlands County TDC helped preserve the longtime tournament, which continued under a new name as the Citrus Golf Trail Ladies Invitational.
The four-day amateur tournament includes Championship and Forever 49 divisions and awards World Amateur Golf Ranking points, making it an important competition for accomplished female golfers looking to build their competitive resumes.
For local residents, it’s another chance to see tomorrow’s golf stars before they become household names. Tournament details and registration are available at CitrusGolfTrail.com.
The Orange Jacket: A Sebring Golf Tradition
While Augusta has its famous green jacket, the Citrus Golf Trail has created a colorful tradition of its own.
The champions of the Citrus Golf Trail Open in November and the Citrus Golf Trail Ladies Invitational in December each receive a distinctive orange jacket, a nod to the Masters’ iconic green jacket and a celebration of Highlands County’s citrus heritage.
“The orange jacket is a uniquely local way to recognize outstanding golfers while connecting two competitive tournaments to the area’s identity,” Hartt said.
National Golf Media Return to Sebring
The spotlight won’t be limited to tournament play. The International Network of Golf (ING) Fall Forum, November 30–December 3, brings golf journalists, media professionals and industry representatives to Inn on the Lakes in Sebring.
The gathering features golf outings, industry presentations, networking and opportunities for attendees to experience the area’s golf courses, hospitality and attractions. It’s another opportunity for Highlands County to make an impression on people who write about, promote and influence the golf industry nationwide.
More Than a Game
While the competition happens on the golf course, the benefits reach well beyond the fairways. Visiting golfers, families, tournament organizers and media professionals stay in local hotels, dine at area restaurants and support businesses throughout Sebring, Avon Park and Lake Placid. These events also introduce new audiences to the Citrus Golf Trail, a collection of courses that makes Highlands County an appealing golf getaway.
For residents, the message is simple: you don’t have to travel to a major golf destination to experience great competitive golf. Some of the sport’s future stars are coming right here. And who knows? The next player you watch compete in Sebring could one day be playing for a green jacket of their own.
