PGA Tour Returns to Utah for Bank of Utah Championship

IVINS, Utah — The PGA Tour kicks off the Bank of Utah Championship this Thursday at the Black Desert Golf Course in Ivins, attracting a talented field for its latest fall event.

This year’s championship marks a return to the Utah course, which hosted its inaugural event last year. Matt McCarty took home the title in 2024, finishing with an impressive score of 23 under par.

Golf experts predict favorable conditions as players compete at an elevation of over 3,000 feet, which may help enhance driving distances. The par-71 course now plays 7,421 yards long due to recent modifications.

Kurt Kitayama stands out among the competitors this week. He’s found success recently with two top-10 finishes and a win at the 3M Open. Kitayama ranks second in strokes gained tee-to-green over the past three months, making him a top contender for victory.

Maverick McNealy enters as a betting favorite, yet players like Kitayama and defending champion McCarty, listed at +3500 odds, are expected to push for the title. Other notable names include Michael Thorbjornsen and Alex Noren, both showing consistent play this season.

The course is designed with wide fairways and large greens, offering opportunities for birdies. Despite concerns regarding the wind, predictions indicate mild breezes for the tournament’s duration, likely favoring scoring.

As players gear up for this week’s event, fans are eager to see who will capitalize on the favorable conditions at Black Desert and secure a victory in the Bank of Utah Championship.