The AT&T Byron Nelson Golf Tournament returned to the city of McKinney May 9–15 with McKinney-based Independent Financial once again serving as the official bank sponsor of the PGA Tour event. As the official bank sponsor, Independent Financial is one of five companies designated as “Premier Partners” of the AT&T Byron Nelson. For the second year, the tournament teed off at TPC Craig Ranch. The event is part of a five-year agreement with the PGA Tour that brings visitors, economic opportunities and international attention to the city and includes televised coverage of the four rounds of play.
Last year’s AT&T Byron Nelson field included elite players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, Jordan Spieth, Brooks Koepka and Hideki Matsuyama as it attracted more than 46,000 spectators—despite COVID-19 restrictions that limited attendance. In addition to top PGA Tour players returning this year, country music star Lee Brice gave a special performance on May 14, with the Band of Heathens opening.
“This year the AT&T Byron Nelson will open at full capacity, bringing a heightened economic impact to our community,” McKinney Mayor George Fuller said in advance of the event. “In addition to being an international event that will bring worldwide recognition to our great city and provide a significant economic impact, most importantly the AT&T Byron Nelson supports children and their families in need.”
Proceeds from the tournament will benefit Momentous Institute, a philanthropic organization that works with children, families and communities to build and repair social emotional health through education, therapeutic services, research and training so that all children can achieve their full potential.
“This is an event that is so important to Momentous Institute and the many lives impacted by its work,” says David Brooks, Independent Financial chairman and CEO. “We are proud to help bring this event to our city, and it provides economic benefits for McKinney and Collin County. This is just the second year for this tournament here, but so many people across our community are embracing and supporting it.”
Like last year, McKinney and Collin County will benefit through tourism spending and national television coverage. Since 1968, the AT&T Byron Nelson tournament has raised more than $172.5 million for Momentous Institute.
“This is a signature event for the EDC for business recruitment and showcasing McKinney’s development opportunities,” says Michael Jones, chairman of the McKinney Economic Development Corp. “After the success of last year’s tournament, we anticipate the AT&T Byron Nelson will bring an even greater economic impact to the city of McKinney and surrounding areas. This year the tournament will operate with increased attendance, and we are excited to see what the tournament will bring to our community.”
Established in 1913, Independent Financial operates 90 locations in four regions: the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex, Central Texas and Greater Houston regions in Texas, as well as the Colorado Front Range region.
