Grande Dunes Resort Course Named Host of 2026 Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Am Championship Round

The stage is set for the final chapter of this year’s Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship.

The Championship Round on Friday, September 4 will be held at the Grande Dunes Resort Course — one of the premier courses in Myrtle Beach.

Each year, the World Am culminates with its most competitive and anticipated day, where flight winners from the week’s competition advance to battle for the title of World Champion. This year, that moment will unfold on one of the most scenic and challenging layouts along the Grand Strand.

A Championship-Worthy Venue

Designed by Roger Rulewich, the Grande Dunes Resort Course is known for its championship-level design, immaculate conditioning, and stunning Intracoastal Waterway views.

The course offers a true test from start to finish — demanding precision off the tee, strategic approach shots, and confident putting under pressure. It’s the kind of layout that rewards complete players and creates a fitting stage for crowning a champion.

For players who advance to Friday, the experience of competing at Grande Dunes is as memorable as the title itself.

Continuing a Tradition of Great Finishes

The World Am Championship Round rotates annually among some of the top courses in the region, ensuring each year delivers a unique and memorable finish.

In 2025, the Championship was held at Thistle Golf Club, where players competed on a layout known for its links-style design and demanding conditions.

Now, the spotlight shifts to Grande Dunes — bringing a new challenge and a new opportunity for this year’s finalists.

The Final Step Toward a Title

Throughout the week, more than 3,000 players will compete across Myrtle Beach in a 72-hole, flighted stroke play format. Each flight winner earns the opportunity to advance to Friday’s Championship Round.

From there, it’s simple:

One round.

One course.

One World Champion.

And this year, that champion will be decided at Grande Dunes Resort Course.

Be Part of the Week

Whether you’re chasing a championship, competing in your flight, or simply experiencing the tournament for the first time, the World Am offers a week unlike any other in golf.

And it all builds toward Friday.

A final round.

A championship stage.

A moment players never forget.

The Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship is the largest amateur golf tournament in the world, welcoming more than 3,000 players each year to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The 2026 event will take place August 31 – September 4, featuring a 72-hole, four-day stroke play format played across some of the area’s top courses.

Golfers compete in flights based on handicap, age, and gender, creating a fair and competitive experience for all skill levels. Throughout the week, players enjoy not only a true championship environment, but also the unmatched atmosphere of Myrtle Beach — highlighted by the World’s Largest 19th Hole, where golfers gather each night to celebrate the game, connect with fellow competitors, and create memories that last long after the final round.

Michael Fincham Wins 2026 Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship

Michael Fincham from New Bern, N.C. is the official World Amateur golf champion, defeating 60 other golfers in the Flight Winners Playoff of the 2026 Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship Friday played at Grande Dunes Resort Course in Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Fincham defeated Bruce Shively (Murrells Inlet, S.C.) in a one-hole playoff as Roger Parker (Concord, N.C.) finished third.

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Night 4 of “The World’s Largest 19th Hole” at the 43rd Annual Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship featured more skills challenges hosted by St. André Golf, a visit from Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Matt Pivarnik, multi-genre tribute band SNAP and more from the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.

Photographer David Williams captured all the action, once more showcasing the essence of World Am camaraderie and revelry you can only find in The Golf Capital of the World®!

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As players made their final push today in pursuit of winning their flights to advance to Friday’s championship round, Thursday’s Round 4 of the 43rd Annual Play Golf Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship wrapped up regulation play with a flourish! Check out today’s photo galleries from The Golf Capital of the World® including course action at Diamondback Golf Club, and highlights from Wednesday night’s “World’s Largest 19th Hole” festivities at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.

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Come as You Are. Leave as a Legend.

Current Player Count:

3,000

To join the alternate list, click here and we will contact you when spots open up.

Copyright © 2026 Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Championship

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