Golfer Joe Weiler awarded sponsor exemption to play Memorial Health Championship
SPRINGFIELD — June 19, 2023 – The Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS announced today that professional golfer Joe Weiler has been awarded a sponsor exemption to allow him to compete in the Korn Ferry Tour event in Springfield.
Weiler, 24, a native of Bloomington, Ind., earned several First Team Big Ten selections in golf while working toward a degree in industrial engineering from Purdue University. This is his first year as a professional golfer after graduating from Purdue in 2022, and he competed in the first nine Korn Ferry Tour events of the season. While his scores in those events did not qualify him for the Memorial Health Championship, the sponsor exemption will allow him to maintain momentum in his quest to earn a spot on the PGA Tour.
“I’m thankful to have this opportunity to play and compete,” Weiler said. “Getting a PGA card is still within reach and this is a great chance for me to get points and continue to advance.”
Weiler said he’s excited to compete in Springfield, the closest stop on the Korn Ferry Tour to his hometown. He expects to have his parents, girlfriend and other friends and family cheering him on in person. He’s also hoping his grandmother, who lives in West Lafayette, Ind., can make the trip. “She’s my big fan,” he said. “She has the Korn Ferry app and she always texts me about how it’s going, but she hasn’t seen me play in a while.”
Weiler’s sponsor exemption is the second awarded this year. Jake Erickson, a seven-time Springfield Men’s City Golfchampion, was awarded the first exemption in April.
Tournament director Kate Peters said organizers are excited to welcome Weiler to the field of competitors.
“Joe is a great addition to the stellar group of golfers who will be competing here in a few weeks,” she said. “His career is just beginning and we’re happy to be able to offer him this opportunity.”
"Memorial Health is proud to contribute to a strong community through our partnership in this special tournament," said Aimee Daily, PhD, Memorial Health senior vice president and chief transformation officer. “Joe Weiler will only add to the excitement around this tournament. Fans have the opportunity to see the future stars of the PGA Tour right here in Springfield at a fun and accessible event.”
Fans can attend Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS can do so free of charge thanks to a partnership with Visit Springfield. Fans are encouraged to register for their free tickets at MemorialHealthChampionship.com. Those registering can also purchase upgraded tickets to the J&J Gaming VIP Lounge, a premium spectator venue overlooking the 9th and 18th greens with food and drink included. Daily walk-up attendance is permitted and is also at no charge via the partnership with Visit Springfield.
For more information, contact the tournament office at 217-670-2910 or visit memorialhealthchampionship.com.