KALISPELL, Mont. — For more than three decades, the Governor’s Cup Golf Tournament has brought together hundreds of golfers, along with business leaders and state officials.
More than 400 golfers hit the links this week as the Governor’s Cup returns to the Flathead Valley.
Hosted by the Montana Chamber of Commerce, the two-day tournament is for both competition and networking.
Montana Chamber of Commerce CEO and President Todd O’Hair says they are seeing the Governor’s Cup grow year after year, and that it is a good indicator of the excitement and optimism for Montana.
The event began in 1989 and has grown into one of Montana’s longest-running traditions.
Each year, participants travel from across the state and the country to golf and enjoy the Flathead Valley.
“Governor Stephens was an avid golfer and he recognized the value of bringing folks and business leaders together in the Flathead Valley,” said O’Hair.
Whether they’re competing for the lowest score or just enjoying rounds with colleagues, organizers say the Governor’s Cup continues to help celebrate Montana’s growth.
“We have about 20% of folks that are very competitive and that are very serious golfers, and everybody else that is here is for the experience and relationship building,” said O’Hair.
Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte says, “Some of the teams allow me to take a surrogate shot, which I will do if they need the help.”
For those who don’t golf, the weekend also offers a trap shooting tournament and watersports on Flathead Lake.