Steve Mays, a longtime Myrtle Beach golf industry leader, has been named tournament director of the Myrtle Beach Classic, the Grand Strand’s annual PGA TOUR event.
Mays, who has more than 30 years of experience in golf, sports tourism, hospitality and marketing, will oversee the planning, operations and continued growth of the tournament, which will return to The Dunes Golf and Beach Club May 13-16, 2027.
His appointment was announced by SPORTFIVE, the global sports marketing agency that operates the Myrtle Beach Classic.
Mays most recently served as president of Founders Group International, one of the nation’s largest golf course ownership and operating companies. In that role, he oversaw 21 Myrtle Beach-area courses and helped strengthen the Grand Strand’s position as one of the game’s premier travel destinations.
Prior to joining Founders Group International, Mays spent 13 years with Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday, the area’s former golf tourism marketing organization. His responsibilities included serving as tournament director of the World Amateur Championship and overseeing a portfolio of major golf events.
“I’ve spent my career helping grow golf in Myrtle Beach, and it’s an honor to take on this role,” Mays said. “The Myrtle Beach Classic has quickly become an important part of our community and a showcase for one of the premier golf destinations in the world. I look forward to working with our partners, sponsors, volunteers and community stakeholders to continue building a first-class event.”
A graduate of Coastal Carolina University, Mays developed his affinity for the Myrtle Beach area while attending college and has spent much of his professional career promoting and strengthening the region’s golf industry.
“Steve is one of the most respected leaders in all of Myrtle Beach, and his passion for this community is unmatched,” said Mike Harmon, executive vice president of golf events at SPORTFIVE. “His decades of experience, deep relationships across the region, and proven track record of leading successful golf organizations make him uniquely qualified to guide this event into its next chapter. We’re thrilled to welcome Steve to the team.”
Mays takes over leadership of a tournament that has quickly established itself on the PGA TOUR schedule. The Myrtle Beach Classic, a 120-player, dual-field event, debuted in 2024 and has crowned Chris Gotterup, Ryan Fox and Brandt Snedeker as its first three champions.
The 2027 tournament will mark the event’s fourth playing at The Dunes Golf and Beach Club, one of Myrtle Beach’s most acclaimed courses.
For more information, visit MyrtleBeachClassic.com.
