The 3M Championship is set to achieve an unprecedented goal for a Champions Tour event. Charitable contributions will reach $20 million in 2012 which also marks the tournaments 20th anniversary. There are no other Champions Tour events that have attained this level of charitable contributions in this time frame. “To be the first event to reach $20 million in 20 years is a remarkable milestone,” said Ian Hardgrove, senior vice president of sales and marketing for 3M. “We are proud to support the local healthcare programs that benefit from the 3M Championship.” Proceeds from the tournament continue to support local healthcare programs at Allina Health. The primary beneficiaries include Abbott Northwestern Hospital, United Hospital and Mercy & Unity Hospitals. The tournament donated $1.3 million to charity per year since 2007.

In celebration of $20 million in 20 years, 3M executives have designed a commemorative logo.  The logo will be featured in advertising campaigns and signage throughout the event. The 3M Championship will take place July 30 – August 5, 2012 at the TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, MN.

Nick Price, Tom Lehman and defending champion Jay Haas will compete in the all- star lineup at the 3M Championship. “The spectators and our sponsors will get to see one of the greatest fields at any event on the Champions Tour, “ said Hollis Cavner, tournament director for the 3M Championship. Kenny Perry will be making his first appearance at the tournament. Also slated to appear are Fred Couples, Bernhard Langer, Fred Funk and Mark Calcavecchia.

 General admission will be free for all spectators. “We are thrilled that Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino and Chi Chi Rodriguez will be headlining our Post-It® Greats of Golf Competition and autograph sessions,” Cavner said. 3M Championship fans will also have a chance to see Billy Casper, Dave Stockton and Don January on Saturday and Sunday in the Greats of Golf event.

Roger Stewart CGCS, Director of Golf and his Superintendent Alex Stuedemann along with crew and volunteers have the course in spectacular condition.   Timely rains and a cooling trend have helped to make conditions worthy of the “Championship” title.  The Seniors can expect slick greens, firm fairways, manicured bunkers and plenty of open water.

Good luck to the TPC Green Staff as they show off all their hard efforts.