A $25,000 Sports Development Grant from the Great Lakes Sports Commission helped make a new chapter in women’s professional golf possible at Crystal Mountain in 2026.
Working in partnership with the Michigan PGA and the Michigan Women’s Open, GLSC supported the championship’s debut as an official event on the ANNIKA Women’s All Pro Tour. The 54-hole tournament was held June 30 through July 2 on Crystal Mountain’s Mountain course in Thompsonville.
Creating a pathway for rising professionals
The ANNIKA Women’s All Pro Tour provides developing professional golfers with high-level competition and a pathway toward the LPGA Tour. Adding the Michigan Women’s Open to the schedule strengthened the tournament’s field, visibility and prize opportunities while bringing another nationally significant women’s sporting event to northern Michigan.
The partnership also reinforces the Michigan Women’s Open’s longstanding role in showcasing women’s golf. Its connection to the ANNIKA Tour creates new opportunities for emerging athletes while introducing players, families and fans to Benzie County and the surrounding region.
Supporting women’s sports and regional impact
GLSC’s Sports Development Grant program helps events grow their reach, strengthen participant experiences and generate lasting value for host communities. The investment at Crystal Mountain reflects the Commission’s commitment to women’s athletics and to partnerships capable of elevating northern Michigan on a national stage.
By bringing together Crystal Mountain, the Michigan PGA, the Michigan Women’s Open and the ANNIKA WAPT, the event demonstrated how regional collaboration can create meaningful opportunities for athletes and new economic activity for northern Michigan.