FPFC to host third annual Top Golf Tournament
FPFC to host third annual Top Golf Tournament
The Fresh Produce & Floral Council is gearing up for its third annual Top Golf Tournament on Thursday, Oct. 30, promising a night of competition, camaraderie and fajitas under the lights. Matthew Hayes, FPFC’s program and events director, said the idea for the event was born three years ago as a way to give members a fresh, less formal networking opportunity.
“We launched this tournament to create a fun, engaging environment where members from across the produce, floral and logistics industries could connect without the full-day commitment of a traditional golf outing,” Hayes said. “Over the years, it has grown into a highly anticipated annual tradition, and our sponsorship opportunities have expanded its reach.”
Hayes said Top Golf’s format makes the event accessible for everyone regardless of skill level. “Players don’t need a handicap or a full day on the course,” he said. “With six players per bay, the setup is more social, allowing for networking moments that just aren’t possible on a spread-out 18-hole course.”
This year’s tournament will have a more intimate feel. FPFC is expecting 72 attendees and is already at half capacity. “We made the decision to keep this year’s event smaller due to industry conflicts,” Hayes said. “We expect to sell out, so we’re encouraging members to register as soon as possible.”
One of the most anticipated parts of the evening is the $10,000 Hole-in-One Contest, which Hayes said always keeps energy high. “While no one has claimed the jackpot yet, there have been several close calls that had the crowd buzzing,” he said. “It’s one of the most exciting moments of the night — and there’s even an opportunity to sponsor this contest.”
The event also features a lively raffle with prizes ranging from gift cards and electronics to golf accessories provided by Top Golf. “Expect a few standout items this year, thanks to sponsor contributions,” Hayes said.
The tournament consistently draws a broad mix of participants, including growers, shippers, wholesalers, retailers, logistics providers and floral suppliers. “This event is a true industry mixer,” Hayes said. “We design it to maximize interaction — from grouped bays to contests and social spaces — so attendees really get time together.”
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, with tiers ranging from $600 Photo Sponsor to $4,000 Eagle Sponsor, offering event signage, social media promotion, recognition in the organization’s bi-weekly newsletter and team entries.
After rave reviews last year, FPFC is bringing back the fajita buffet, featuring steak and chicken fajitas, mixed peppers and onions, cilantro lime rice, refried nacho beans, tortillas, guacamole and chips, queso blanco and Southwest salad with avocado ranch.
Hayes said last year’s event was full of memorable moments, from heated longest-drive duels to playful company rivalries. “The casual atmosphere encourages conversation and laughter,” he said. “That’s exactly what we want — for people to leave feeling more connected than when they arrived.”
With sponsorship opportunities, a compact and approachable format and a menu that attendees loved, FPFC’s Top Golf Tournament is poised to deliver another night of fun, competition and relationship-building that supports the council’s mission to foster education, networking and industry collaboration.
