Since 1998, we’ve been building experiences that build character to empower kids through a lifetime of new challenges and continuous personal growth. During that time, we’ve experienced some of our own personal growth and development as an organization, ensuring we show up stronger for future generations of kids. We invite you to take a journey with us through the last 25 years of our growth story.
25 Years of Impact
February 26, 1998
Incorporation
On Feb. 26, 1998, “Richmond First Tee” was incorporated as a non-profit organization, laying the groundwork for the development of First Tee facilities in the greater Richmond area.
August 16, 2000
First Tee Chesterfield Opens
First Tee Chesterfield opened its golf course in Chesterfield County, the First Tee Chesterfield Golf Course at Iron Bridge Park, becoming the nation’s 20th programming location.
May 4, 2003
Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range Opens
President George H.W. Bush commemorates the opening of the Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range, marking the 100th location of the First Tee.
May 16, 2006
Annika Visits Chesterfield
Annika Sorenstam headlines the fourth annual Golf Clinic and Exhibition at The First Tee Chesterfield Golf Course.
August 2009
School Program Launches Locally
First Tee School Program Launches Locally with 10 Chesterfield County Elementary Schools and 10 Richmond City Schools
August 2010
Partnership Formed with VCU
VCU and First Tee – Greater Richmond create a partnership to make the Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range the Home of the VCU Men’s Golf Team.
July 8, 2012
Broach Wins at Pebble Beach
First Tee – Greater Richmond participant Tyler Broach Pairs with Mark McNulty to Win the Pro-Junior Competition at the Nature Valley First Tee Open at Pebble Beach
March 2013
Woo Named National Finalist
First Tee – Greater Richmond participant Brittany Woo is Named First Tee Most Outstanding Participant Finalist.
June 2013
Community Partnership Program Begins
First Tee Community Program Launched – FTGR Has Over 60 Community Partners Today
June 26, 2015
Inaugural Par 3 Championship
First Tee – Greater Richmond hosts the inaugural National Par 3 Championship at Kanawha Club.
Oct. 25, 2017
Elson Redmond Renovation
The Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range reopens after a $1.2 million renovation, highlighting the partnership between the City of Richmond, VCU, and First Tee.
Nov. 1, 2018
Tattersall Dedicated
The First Tee Chesterfield Golf Course is re-dedicated as The Tattersall Youth Development Center in recognition of the Tattersall Family’s contributions to the Richmond community.
April 27, 2021
Nicole Chang Earns ACE
Nicole Chang became the first ACE-certified participant in chapter history, earning the accolade from First Tee headquarters.
May 20, 2021
Belmont Reopens
Belmont reopens to national and local acclaim after a renovation and reimagination from Love Golf Design.
First Tee and Belmont would earn the VSGA’s “Grow the Game” Award in December 2021 as a result.
Oct. 18, 2022
River City Collegiate Classic
First Tee – Greater Richmond co-hosts the inaugural River City Collegiate Classic, showcasing seven HBCUs across a two-day golf tournament at The Country Club of Virginia and Belmont.
Dec. 2022
Continuing Our Mission
First Tee – Greater Richmond impacts the lives of nearly 75,000 area youth through its three platforms: First Tee Programs, School Program, and Community Partnership Program.
