Odd: Rich Harvest Farms Drops Out Of 2016 LPGA Event

Brainchild of Commissioner Mike Whan, the International Crown is one of the LPGA's bigger events thanks to a different format. Announcing the exclusive Rich Harvest Farms as 2016 host was considered a nice get for Whan, though architecture aficionados pan the course which was a Golf Digest panel favorite before it wasn't.

Now comes news the course is pulling out of the 2016 IC obligation less than nine months out, with no reason given but a funny comment from the LPGA Tour that they are open to future events there despite this uncomfortable situation. Right!

From the Len Ziehm, who notes developer Jerry Rich's interest in hosting events adding to the oddity of the last minute drama.

Teddy Greenstein says the event will stay in the Chicagoland area, possibly at Merit Club or Cog Hill.

The LPGA's statement:

LPGA & Rich Harvest Farms

The LPGA and Rich Harvest Farms have mutually agreed to relocate the 2016 UL International Crown.

Despite this decision, both parties remain open to future LPGA opportunities at Rich Harvest Farms based on the successful partnership in staging the 2009 Solheim Cup.

The UL International Crown will continue as scheduled July 21-24, and the LPGA stands committed to keeping the 2016 edition of the biennial match-play event in the Chicagoland area. The 2018 event will still be showcased in the Republic of Korea.

The LPGA is finalizing a new host venue and will comment further at the appropriate time.