The 2016 UL International Crown has found a new Chicago-based home, moving from Rich Harvest Farms to the Merit Club, the LPGA Tour announced Tuesday.
Ahead of last week's CME Group Tour Championship, the tour announced Rich Harvest Farms, which hosted the 2009 Solheim Cup, pulled out as host of the biennial, country-based team event. No specific reason was given for the change, but LPGA officials promised the event would still be held in the Chicago area.
Merit Club, which opened in 1992, has a history with high-level women's golf, hosting the 2000 U.S. Women's Open, won by Karrie Webb.
“The Merit Club has wonderful history and prestige and will offer a spectacular backdrop to see which country will take home the crown," said LPGA commissioner Mike Whan in a release. "We think of the UL International Crown as an event that’s growing in global significance and making a major impact on women’s golf. The Merit Club helps us take that next step in many ways and we’re excited to partner together.”
The event will take place July 21-24, with the eight participating countries to be decided based on the Rolex Rankings after the 2016 ANA Inspiration next April and the four players on each of the eight teams decided after the 2016 KPMG Women's PGA Championship in June.
