The Tavistock Cup begins today, the two day out-of-the-norm golf tournament that pins touring PGA Pros from Florida’s uber-exclusive Isleworth residential community against the luxury-loving dwellers of the Lake Nona development.

Club tournaments have been a mainstay in the game since it first appeared on the grassy Scottish dunes of yesteryear, however the Tavistock Cup enjoys public attention because of the high-interest individuals who take part. This year, the Isleworth team includes such pros as John Cook, Mark O’Meara, Darren Clarke, Stuart Appleby, Robert Allenby, Charles Howell III, Nick O’Hern, J.B. Holmes, Daniel Chopra and some guy named Tiger Woods. All are resident of Isleworth when they aren’t traveling from tour stop to tour stop. 

Representing the Lake Nona team (sans Sergio Garcia…tear) are Chris DiMarco, Henrik Stenson(most recently in the news for stripping down to his skivvies in order to hit a ball out of a water hazard at the World Golf Championships- CA Championship held at Doral Golf Resort this past weekend), Ben Curtis, Mark McNulty, Ian Poulter, Justin Rose, Ernie Els, Trevor Immelman, Reteif Goosen and Graeme McDowell.

The Tavistock Cup is more of a pride tournament than a prize-fetching victory for those who emerge triumphant. While the tournament does have a $3.5 million dollar purse, the winning team’s $1 Million prize is split amongst themselves and a mere amount when considering what these pros usually play for week in and week out. But hey, it isn’t all that bad for two days of “work.”

Since the tournament is played at Lake Nona this year, the Isleworth team descends upon the property in private helicopters each morning, preparing to defend their title (Isleworth claimed the Tavistock Cup in 2008). 

The Tavistock Cup is really all fun and games, but stands as a premier model of healthy country club tournaments. Tournaments such as this take place everyday and are a great way to keep moral high in such trying economic times. A little competition never hurt anybody. Find out if your local club offers such competitions and join in the fun of a friendly rivalry. 

Coverage of the event is provided by the golf channel and begins at noon each day. To learn more visit www.tavistockcup.com. Or follow live coverage at www.thegolfchannel.com.

- Nichole Brophy, Golf Editor. 

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