Golf tournament staying in Upstate

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The BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by Synnex Corp. is staying in Upstate South Carolina for the next five years. South Carolina Charities Inc., which operates the tournament, announced a five-year contract extension with BMW Manufacturing, Synnex Corp. and the PGA Tour.

It was also announced that the tournament will take place later beginning next year, moving to June 3-9, 2019, according to a news release.

“This is incredible news for all of our local businesses and the thousands of residents who value a thriving economy,” said Bob Nitto, president of S.C. Charities Inc., in the release “From restaurants and hotels to the philanthropies we support that fulfill a wide spectrum of needs within our community, the five-year contract extension of our partnership will benefit everyone.”

In addition to the five-year extension, there also is an opportunity for expanded worldwide coverage by the Golf Channel, the release said. Currently broadcasting from Thornblade Club, live tournament coverage may now be extended to all three tournament courses.

“BMW Manufacturing is pleased that this extension means we are able to continue to display our strong commitment to the Upstate and South Carolina,” said Max Metcalf, manager of government and community relations for BMW Manufacturing, in the release. “We have supported this tournament for the past 17 years, and we look forward to continuing that unwavering dedication.”

The tournament draws an estimated 40,000 spectators, 20% of whom travel from out of town. The number of guests leads to more than 3,500 room nights for Greenville-area hotels, according to the release.