HARTFORD, Connecticut – The Travelers Championship has announced that the 2026 tournament generated more than $5 million for 290 charities, setting record highs in both categories. Funds were distributed to representatives from participating nonprofits at the annual Travelers Championship Charity Celebration at TPC River Highlands.
Speakers included Andy Bessette, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer at Travelers; Nathan Grube, Travelers Championship Tournament Director; Marissa Weidner, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer at Webster Bank; and Carrah Kalat, Chief Marketing Officer at Aetna, which along with Webster Bank sponsored the tournament’s Birdies for Charity program. ESPN’s Michael Eaves served as the event’s emcee.
“Caring for our communities is a fundamental value for Travelers, and we couldn’t be happier to see this record level of support generated for so many organizations that turn these dollars into essential services and life‑changing programs for those in need,” said Bessette. “This year’s tournament was incredibly special, and we have even bigger plans for the future. But what the event does for charity wouldn’t be possible without the contributions from Webster Bank and Aetna, the involvement of hundreds of local nonprofits and the tireless efforts from Nathan and the entire Travelers Championship team.”
The 2026 Travelers Championship was won by Viktor Hovland in a one-hole Monday morning playoff. The PGA Tour Signature Event featured one of the best player fields in golf competing for a $20 million purse. Hovland recorded a video message that was played during the Charity Celebration.
“Wanted to congratulate everyone for raising over $5 million [for] charity,” said Hovland, who won for the eighth time in his PGA Tour career. “I’m very honored to be the 2026 Travelers champion. It’s a very special tournament to me, as I made my pro debut there and had my mom there to watch me win in person. Can’t wait to be there again.”
Since 2007, when Travelers became title sponsor, the tournament has generated more than $40 million for over 1,000 nonprofits across the region, donating 100% of its net proceeds to charity. The event also pumps an estimated $70 million into the Connecticut economy every year.
“The heartbeat of the Travelers Championship has always been partnering with local charities and providing them with funding and a platform to spread their message,” said Grube. “Each dollar raised reflects the dedication of Travelers, our corporate partners, and the tournament’s volunteers and fans who rally around this event every year. That commitment allows us to make a positive impact on thousands of lives, helping those young and old.”
Preparations already have begun for the 2027 Travelers Championship, New England’s only annual PGA TOUR Signature Event, which will take place June 21-27 at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut.
