Mara Downing is the Vice President of Global Brand and Communications for John Deere. She made the announcement Monday at "Champions Day," in Rock Island, and emphasized the importance of Deere's relationship with the PGA Tour.
"You think back to the late 90s. We were relatively new to the golf equipment business. And through our partnership and our work together, we were able to really propel the John Deere brand onto a global stage for that segment of customers."
Birdies for Charity also helps the company give back to the community. And this year's goal is $14 million. This year's John Deere Classic the 25th tournament with Deere as the title sponsor.
Sue Rector, tournament chairwoman, says so far around 1,700 people have signed up to volunteer. But more are needed. "We always need volunteers for all different kinds of things that we do on the course, gallery management, scoring. All those different kind of things. We're looking for volunteers. If anybody's interested, please get on the website and sign up to volunteer. It's really easy to do and super fun."
Rector also says Iowa Women's Basketball Coach Lisa Bluder has confirmed the whole team has been invited to the tournament. Caitlin Clark is set to tee-off in the Wednesday Pro-Am in a group with fellow Iowa native, Zach Johnson.
Last year's winner, J.T. Poston, returned to the Quad Cities Monday. And he's looking forward to defending his John Deere Classic title starting July 6th at TPC Deere Run in Silvis.
