This annual tradition began in 2003 when four neighbors in San Elijo Hills got together on Thanksgiving weekend for a round of golf.

The Turkey Classic is the most fun, relaxed, casual golf tournament you’ll ever experience. In fact, the winner of the tournament is not the lowest score, but the highest. We’ve created lots of traditions with the event, but the most important one is that we have a great time.

Come out and play a round of golf with your neighbors, take a shot at winning the title, and most of all, have fun!

The Rules

The Turkey Classic always awards the highest score with the coveted Turkey Classic Green Jacket & Trophy & a fun prize. The lowest score will also win an honorable mention and prize. Everyone leaves with a token Turkey Classic ‘Private Label Wine’ (yeah, it’s not as fancy as that sounds).

We gather at the golf course based on tee times which are announced before the tournament. You can bring your own foursome or we will match you up with another group. After the tournament, we meet at the Tap-in-Tavern for Mexican food, beer and the awards ceremony.

It’s a fun day and all are welcome!  Hope to see you there!

The History

The Turkey Classic started with just four neighbors in San Elijo Hills – TK Smith, Tim Minjares, Rich Manship and Brian Webb. Tim and TK thought it would be fun to add a little competition to the effort, so Tim went out to Goodwill and found the infamous “Green Jacket”. TK added a special touch when he broke out the sewing machine and sewed on the Turkey patch (you may have noticed how crooked it is).

The Smiths usually hosted the after party, but over time as the event grew, we moved it over to Players Sports Bar. Ted Semprini – the owner of Players – lives in San Elijo and has played in the tournament for many years. He is very generous to provide an area in his sports bar for us to hang out, enjoy food & drinks and the ‘awards ceremony’.  In 2015, with the completion of the new clubhouse, the after part moved to the Tap In Tavern right on the course.

In 2013, this 10 year neighborhood tradition was passed onto the San Elijo Hills Foundation. Making it a foundation event will help ensure the Turkey Classic tradition expands and grows to not only include the entire community, but also to benefit the entire community.

From that first event 2003 to what you see here today is the growth of a neighborhood tradition. It’s all about having fun and getting to know your neighbors.

Welcome to your part of this little piece of history!