GARDEN CITY, Kansas — From August 22–24, the Epson Tour makes its penultimate stop of the season at the Dream First Bank Charity Classic, held at the par-72 Buffalo Dunes Golf Club. With players locked in a fierce battle for LPGA Tour cards, this tournament promises tension, drama, and possibly season-defining performances.
1. Countdown to the LPGA: Race for the Card at Full Tilt
As the season nears its conclusion, each stroke at Garden City holds immense value. The top 10 on the Race for the Card standings earn LPGA Tour membership next year. The pressure is heightened because this is the second-last chance to improve positioning before the Epson Tour Championship.
Leading the charge is rookie Melanie Green, who currently holds the No. 1 spot in the Race for the Card standings — a crucial position given what’s on the line.
2. Venue with History: Buffalo Dunes Golf Club
Located in Garden City, the Buffalo Dunes GC spans 6,502 yards and has served as the home of this Classic since 2014. Previously known as the Garden City Charity Classic, it has become a staple on the development circuit.
The course has delivered memorable drama — including last year’s stunning win by Kathleen Scavo, who secured victory in a six-hole playoff over Daniela Iacobelli.
3. Favorites for the Title
This year’s field is brimming with talent, but several names stand out as clear favorites:
- Melanie Green (USA) – Current Race for the Card leader and already a multiple top-5 finisher this season. Her consistency and ability to score under pressure make her the clear player to beat.
- Amari Avery (USA) – A rising star with strong recent finishes. Avery’s aggressive style fits well with Buffalo Dunes, where birdie runs are often decisive.
- Sophie Hausmann (Germany) – A proven competitor on the Epson Tour with the poise to handle late-season pressure.
- Leah John (Canada) – Quietly climbing the money list and seen by many as a dark-horse pick. A strong week could lock her LPGA status.
- Defending Champion: Kathleen Scavo (USA) – Fresh off her dramatic 2024 playoff win here, Scavo returns to a course that suits her game. Local familiarity and confidence from past success keep her in the conversation.
4. What Makes This Week Critical
| Key Element | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| LPGA Card Implications | Every round can define or derail a player’s chance at earning LPGA status. |
| Course Challenges | Buffalo Dunes’ windy, Kansas terrain demands precision, patience, and strategy. |
| Emotional Stakes | For rookies like Green, the chance to maintain a hold on the top spot carries extra weight. |
| Historical Signals | Last year’s six-hole playoff is a reminder that nothing is decided until the final putt. |
5. Beyond the Fairways: Community & Legacy
The Dream First Bank Charity Classic stretches beyond golf. It benefits high school women’s golf in 22 counties across Southwest Kansas. The event not only nurtures the next generation of players but also highlights the importance of community investment in the game.
Final Thoughts
The Dream First Bank Charity Classic isn’t merely a stop on the Epson Tour — it’s a crossroads. With LPGA Tour stakes, rising stars, and tense history all wrapped into three rounds of golf, Garden City is set to deliver compelling storylines and perhaps even turn a few careers around.
Expect fireworks — not just from competitors eyeing career breakthroughs, but from a tournament that embodies both competitive excellence and community spirit.
Disclaimer: This preview is an independent report based on publicly available sources. All rights to tournament details, player information, and community programs belong to their respective owners. This site is not affiliated with the Epson Tour or LPGA.
