World Long Drive Creates WLD Exhibition Series, Partners with the V Foundation for Cancer Research
- World Long Drive
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
NEW YORK (April 3, 2025) – World Long Drive (WLD), in partnership with ESPN and the V Foundation for Cancer Research, today announced the inaugural 2025 WLD Exhibition Series. The three-event series, which will take place across various venues in the United States, will generate support for the V Foundation’s mission to advance cancer research and feature top WLD athletes, a Pro-Am experience, and multiple opportunities to engage with the sport of long drive.
“We are thankful to team up with World Long Drive and for their support of our mission of accelerating Victory Over Cancer®,” said V Foundation Chief Marketing Officer Roger Ferguson. “This partnership through the WLD Exhibition Series will not only raise crucial funds for research but will also spread awareness of the game-changing impact that research has made and is making for cancer patients and their families.”
The WLD Exhibition Series will kick off with the Fight at Foxwoods on June 30 at Lake of Isles at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut. Following this event, the series will move to Lone Star Showdown on July 11 at Wildhorse Golf Club at Robson Ranch in Denton, Texas, and will wrap up with Battle at Bluejack on October 22 at Bluejack National in Montgomery, Texas.
“We are beyond excited to support the V Foundation with these extraordinary World Long Drive events,” said World Long Drive Chief Commercial Officer David Livingston. “The opportunity to raise funds for cancer research while showcasing the power and excitement of long drive is something truly special. We look forward to seeing fans and athletes come together for a great cause.”
The Fight at Foxwoods will feature exclusive experiences for fans and participants, including a Pro-Am competition with WLD athletes, V Foundation members, and special guests. A limited number of spots will be available for the public to register for the Pro-Am, where participants can enjoy food, beverages, raffles, and a silent auction — with all proceeds benefiting the V Foundation. The Fight at Foxwoods will air July 17 on ESPN2.
“We are thrilled to partner with World Long Drive to bring this event to Foxwoods and the Lake of Isles course,” said Blair Bendel, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Foxwoods Resort Casino. “Golf has long been part of the Foxwoods community and this partnership is a unique chance to bring our guest’s love of the game, the beauty of the Lake of Isles course and the renowned event series, World Long Drive, together all while supporting the advancement of cancer research and the incredible work of the V Foundation. We are excited to see it come to life.”
WLD athletes will also compete in exciting team-style long drive events showcasing their incredible talent and athleticism. The Fight at Foxwoods will feature Isaiah Joyner, a Connecticut native currently ranked No. 24 in the world, adding a personal connection to the event.
The V Foundation is committed to game-changing research to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives. One-hundred percent of funds raised through the 2025 WLD Exhibition Series will go directly to cancer research through the V Foundation.
For more information, please visit www.worldlongdrive.com.
To learn more or to register for the pro-am click below.
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About the V Foundation for Cancer Research:
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach, ESPN commentator and member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The V Foundation has funded nearly $400 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to funding the best scientists to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives. To learn more, visit v.org.
About World Long Drive:
The World Long Drive Tour is the largest annual domestic professional golf event not associated with the PGA of America, the PGA Tour, or the LPGA. It was first held in 1974, and since 2000 consisted of Open, Women’s, Seniors (over-45s), and Amateur events. The Rise division, a subdivision of the Open, will have its inception in the 2025 season. The World Long Drive tour is comprised of eight events domestically and over 30 events internationally all culminating for the season finale World Long Drive Championship. Additionally, World Long Drive hosts televised exhibition events benefiting the V Foundation. World Long Drive tour and championship is owned and operated by GF Sports and Entertainment based out of New York, NY.
About GF Sports and Entertainment:
GF Sports & Entertainment is a global events and operations company that elevates the experience of live sports, entertainment and interactive events. The company owns the Dallas Open, an ATP 500 level event and the only indoor professional tournament in the U.S., as well as the Ottawa Black Bears lacrosse team who competes in the National Lacrosse League. In 2021, GF Sports and Entertainment purchased World Long Drive which is the largest annual domestic professional golf event not associated with the PGA of America, the PGA Tour, or the LPGA. It was first established in 1974, and since 2000 consisted of Open, Women’s, Seniors (over-45s), and Amateur events where athletes compete by driving for distance. GF Sports & Entertainment was founded in July 2015 by New York-based private equity firm GF Capital. For additional information, please visit www.gfsportsandentertainment.com.
About Foxwoods Resort Casino:
Foxwoods Resort Casino, the largest resort casino in the Northeast, has set the standard for innovation and excellence in gaming and hospitality for over 33 years. Owned and operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, Foxwoods continues to redefine the resort experience by offering a dynamic mix of world-class gaming, award-winning dining, top-tier entertainment, and family-friendly attractions.
A destination like no other, Foxwoods offers over 1,900 luxury hotel rooms, over 175,000 square feet of flexible space for meetings and events, shopping at Tanger Outlets, expansive gaming floors throughout the resort, and unmatched amenities. The entertainment portfolio features globally acclaimed artists, exclusive live performances, and premier events hosted at its renowned venues, including the Premier Theater and Great Cedar Showroom.
Through strategic partnerships with leading brands like DraftKings Sportsbook, Hell’s Kitchen, and Great Wolf Lodge, Foxwoods continues to expand its offerings and deliver elevated, curated experiences for guests. The new brand campaign, “This Is How We Resort,” reflects Foxwoods’ commitment to creating unique, personalized moments—from thrilling gaming adventures to relaxing escapes—that redefine what it means to “resort”. For more information, visit www.foxwoods.com.
Contact:
Jonathan Deutsch | Tony Fay PR | 469.534.8525 | jonathan@tonyfaypr.com
Reeves Eddins | Tony Fay PR | 901.647.9697 | reeves@tonyfaypr.com