FedEx Renew as Title Sponsor of St. Jude Classic for 3 Years

The PGA TOUR, discount Youth Programs, prescription Inc. and Memphis-based FedEx Corp. announced yesterday, May 17, that FedEx has extended its one-year sponsorship of the FedEx St. Jude Classic (FESJC) by three years, through 2014.

The event is at the front end of the final three-month stretch through the summer that culminates with the PGA TOUR Playoffs for the FedExCup.

PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem stated: “FedEx has taken a significant step to assure the continuation of its hometown tournament over the next four years. FedEx obviously values the impact that the tournament has on the Memphis community and the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in particular.”

The FedEx St. Jude Classic has raised nearly US$25m for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since 1970, when the hospital became its sole beneficiary. Furthermore, the tournament has created a valuable global platform that has helped to raise the profile of the hospital, leading to additional contributions and financial support.

T. Michael Glenn, executive vice president of Market Development at FedEx, said: “FedEx is happy to continue our long relationship with the FedEx St. Jude Classic and, more importantly, our support of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Our involvement with this tournament allows thousands of Memphis-based FedEx employees to play a direct role in the support of St. Jude.”

FedEx was initially the tournament’s title sponsor for 20 years from 1986 through 2006 and in 2007, FedEx and the PGA TOUR launched the FedExCup, which provides a compelling competition to crown a season-long champion.

FESJC General Chairman Jack Sammons added: “The glory years of our event were during FedEx’s initial 21-year run. It’s no secret that having FedEx back as title sponsor is an answer to lots of prayers, and is music to our ears. Today’s announcement is also wonderful news for the children of St. Jude and golf fans in this region.”