08/06/2026
Dear FWGA Members,
The FWGA Board has heard the concerns and questions surrounding the difficult decisions made during the 2026 City Tournament. We understand the disappointment felt by many players, especially those who were unable to continue after the first round. Because of the discussion that has taken place over the past several days, we wanted to communicate directly with our membership regarding what occurred and how those decisions were made.
No one was more disappointed than the Board that severe weather forced us into a situation we have never encountered in the 101-year history of the City Tournament. Our commitment has always been, and always will be, to conduct a 54-hole championship whenever possible. Every decision we made on Sunday was guided by that objective while trying to provide as many competitors as possible the opportunity to complete the championship.
When the decision had to be made, the weather was still changing, portions of the golf course were unplayable, daylight was limited, and we had less than an hour to determine a path forward. After evaluating every realistic option available at the time, we concluded that reducing the field was the only way to complete a 54-hole championship. The cut was determined solely by the number of players we believed could reasonably finish the second round before darkness.
We recognize that many have asked about refunds. In championship golf, when weather or other circumstances beyond the control of tournament officials require the format to be modified, entry fees are generally used to cover the substantial costs of conducting the event.
The FWGA is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization, and the costs of conducting the City Tournament—including golf course fees, staffing, trophies, scoring, printing, insurance, and other tournament expenses—are largely fixed regardless of how many holes are played. The Association also entered into a contract with Orchard Ridge Country Club based on a predetermined number of rounds to be played during the championship.
Even so, the FWGA Board believed it was important to recognize that the players who were eliminated after the first round did not receive the tournament experience we strive to provide. Although the Association had a signed agreement with Orchard Ridge Country Club based on the scheduled number of rounds, Orchard Ridge worked with us in an effort to help offset a portion of those costs. We sincerely appreciate their partnership and willingness to assist.
As a result, the FWGA Board has approved a $60 refund for every player who was eliminated after the first round. While this does not represent the full cost of the entry fee, we hope it demonstrates our appreciation for those competitors and our commitment to treating our members fairly while remaining financially responsible.
We understand that not everyone will agree with the decision that was made. Healthy discussion is part of any organization, and we respect differing opinions. However, we hope our members also recognize that every decision was made by volunteers who were attempting to preserve the integrity and tradition of one of Indiana's oldest amateur championships under extraordinarily difficult circumstances.
The Board will conduct a complete review of this year's event and use what we have learned to improve our procedures should we ever face similar conditions again.
Thank you for your continued support of the Fort Wayne Golf Association, our volunteers, and the City Tournament. We look forward to continuing to build an event that our membership can be proud of for years to come.
-The FWGA Board of Directors
