From Tee to Green, AARP South Dakota Is in the Game

Whether you play golf or simply enjoy soaking up the outdoor atmosphere while watching world‑class competition, AARP South Dakota invites you to swing into Minnehaha Country Club this September for all the excitement happening from tee to green at the Sanford International.

Held in Sioux Falls since 2018, the Sanford International is a PGA TOUR Champions event that brings legendary golfers—and thousands of fans—from across the country to South Dakota. This year’s tournament runs September 7–13, and AARP South Dakota is proud to once again be a tournament sponsor.

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A Championship Event That Inspires Active Living

The PGA TOUR Champions highlights some of the game’s most accomplished and respected players who continue to compete at the highest level while embracing healthy, active living as they age. Past Sanford International tournaments have featured golf greats such as Jack Nicklaus, Sir Nick Faldo, Ernie Els, Fred Couples, Bernhard Langer, John Daly, and four‑time Sanford International champion Steve Stricker.

For AARP South Dakota, that commitment to staying active later in life is exactly why this event resonates.

“The Sanford International is a powerful example of what healthy aging can look like,” said Erik Gaikowski, AARP South Dakota State Director. “These PGA TOUR Champions golfers show the benefits of staying active, competitive, and engaged. Golf is also a sport that adults can enjoy throughout their lives, making it a great fit for AARP’s focus on helping people live healthy and stay socially connected as they age.”

Meeting People Where They Are

Another reason AARP South Dakota is showing up at the Sanford International? The people.

The tournament draws visitors and community members from all over South Dakota and beyond, creating a unique opportunity for AARP South Dakota to connect face‑to‑face, listen, and share resources that help people choose how they want to live as they age.

“Events like this allow us to meet people in a fun, relaxed setting and talk about what matters to them—whether that’s staying active, volunteering, planning for the future or giving back to their community,” Gaikowski added. “We’re proud to be part of an event that’s great for Sioux Falls and showcases South Dakota on a national stage.”