John Shippen Golf Invitational Returning to Detroit

The John Shippen National Golf Invitational will be back in 2022 and expand to give more opportunities for Black golfers. The event kicked off last year at Detroit Golf Club ahead of the Rocket Mortgage Classic.

This year, the invitational will have three events: two in Michigan in one in New Jersey.

he John Shippen Shoot-Out will happen May 9 at Mountain Ridge Golf Club in New Jersey. The John Shippen National Golf Invitational women's tournament will take place June 1-2 at Blythefield Country Club in Grant Rapids, where the Meijer LPGA Classic takes place. Lastly, the men's field will compete at Detroit Golf Club July 23-24, with the winner scoring an exemption into the Rocket Mortgage Classic.

“Building on the impact of the event’s inaugural year, The John Shippen is introducing additional professional exemption opportunities that expand to new markets – creating more year-round exposure and Black representation in golf,” Jason Langwell, the executive vice president of Intersport and the executive director of the Rocket Mortgage Classic, said in a statement. “The Intersport and Rocket Mortgage teams are passionate about diversity, equity and inclusion and we partner with organizations committed to making a difference with their mission. This is why we’re particularly proud to be announcing the second annual event – which aims to address barriers that have prevented talented Black golfers and aspiring business professionals.”

“We are pleased to support Blythefield Country Club as they host the women’s division of THE JOHN SHIPPEN National Golf Invitational in Grand Rapids this year,” added Cathy Cooper, executive director of the Meijer LPGA Classic. “We’re honored to be part of this inclusive statewide effort that extends to communities across Michigan and proud to offer an exemption into the Meijer LPGA Classic this June.”