John Deere Classic History: Champions, Milestones, & Iconic Moments

Do you know the John Deere Classic? It has earned the ‘Most Engaged Community’ and ‘Best Sponsor Integration’ awards in 2024.

The John Deere Classic originated as a modest, local tournament. Today, it is a popular destination on the PGA Tour. It initially gained popularity due to its welcoming culture and community support.

Let’s explore how a small Midwest tournament became a major PGA event in this “John Deere Classic History” article.

The Origin of the John Deere Classic 

The John Deere Classic was originally called the Quad Cities Open. It first launched in 1971 as a satellite event. It occurred on the PGA Tour at Crow Valley Country Club in Davenport, Iowa.

It became an official PGA Tour tournament in 1972, attracting more attention from professionals. Deane Beman won the first 2 championships in 1971 and 1972. Later, he was the Commissioner of the PGA Tour from 1974 to 1994.

During its early years, the event earned a reputation for attracting rising talents, tight competition, and community involvement in golf’s heartland.

Host Courses Over the Years

The John Deere Classic is currently held in Silvis, IL, but has changed locations 3 times. Let’s take a look:

1971–1974: Crow Valley Country Club (Iowa)

The first years took place at this picturesque course along the Mississippi River. Its mature trees and tight fairways made it the perfect place to test shot accuracy.

1975–1999: Oakwood Country Club (Illinois)

After that, in 1975, the tournament moved to Oakwood Country Club in Coal Valley, Illinois, where it stayed for 25 years. This facility offered a more accessible and family-friendly viewing experience.

It had a variety of sponsors and was known by many names, like Miller High Life (1982-1984) and Hardee’s Golf Classic (1986-1994).

2000–today: TPC Deere Run (Illinois)

TPC Deere Run, designed by former PGA Tour player D.A. Weibring, became the new permanent home in 2000.

It’s not only a pro favorite, but it’s also a high-end facility that matches the modern John Deere Classic’s quality and prestige.

Big Milestones in John Deere Classic History

There are 2 unforgettable milestones that you should know:

Becoming the John Deere Classic (1998)

In 1998, Deere & Company became the tournament’s title sponsor. This event marked the start of a new era, both in branding and prestige. Then, it was renamed the John Deere Classic in 1999.

The purpose is to represent the Midwest’s strong agricultural and industrial traditions. This is particularly meaningful when the Quad Cities region is also home to Deere.

Big Event: Brand-new Venue (2000)

The next year, in 2000, the event relocated to a brand-new venue: TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois. D.A. Weibring, a former PGA Tour professional, built this championship course. He grew up nearby and won the tournament 3 times.

The move to TPC Deere Run has raised the profile and quality of the tournament. This also provides a permanent home for high-level competition.

With its new name and location, the John Deere Classic became a fan favorite on the PGA Tour. The new branding resulted in more sponsor support, larger crowds, and a consistently competitive player field.

It also reflected Deere & Company’s core principles of hard labor, innovation, and community commitment.

Memorable Moments & Winners in John Deere Classic History

Throughout its history, the John Deere Classic has witnessed numerous notable moments. Here are some of the highlights:

Deane Beman – First Title of Event (1971 – 1972)

In 1971, Deane Beman won the event’s first title by finishing 2 strokes ahead of Dow Finsterwald. Few know that Beman would later become a longtime commissioner of the PGA Tour.

In 1972, Beman successfully defended his title. This year also marks a milestone as the tournament becomes an official stop PGA Tour.

Sam Snead – Golf Icon (1979)

Golf icon Sam Snead made history by becoming the first PGA Tour player to shoot 67 in the second round. Then, he added to the magic with a 66 in the final.

D. A. Weibring’s 3 Wins (1979, 1991, & 1995)

1. A. Weibring, an Illinois native, left a lasting legacy at the John Deere Classic with 3 victories. His victory helped enhance the tournament’s profile and strengthen its connection with Midwest golf fans.

Michael Clark II’s Win on New Home (2000)

Michael Clark II wins the first tournament on the new course – TPC Deere Run. This helped to write his name in the history books as the first champion at the tournament’s new home.

Steve Stricker’s Hat Trick (2009–2011)

From 2009 to 2011, Steve Stricker dominated the event with 3 straight victories. His consistent performance and strong ties to the Midwest helped him become a fan favorite.

Stricker’s hat trick represented more than just a personal success. This gave the event a continuous headline act and helped to improve its national image.

Jordan Spieth – Youngest Winner (2013)

This remarkable event in John Deere Classic history took place in 2013. Jordan Spieth got his first PGA Tour victory at the age of 19.

He holed out from a bunker on the 72nd hole, forcing a three-way playoff, and won spectacularly. This victory made him the youngest winner in 82 years of the PGA Tour.

Champions from 2021 to 2025

Lucas Glover (2021): Won his first in more than a decade and his 4th PGA Tour.

J.T. Poston (2022): He became the first wire-to-wire winner at the John Deere Classic since David Frost achieved the feat in 1992.

Sepp Straka (2023): He won the prize of $1,332,000 and took home the bronze trophy.

Davis Thompson (2024): He capped the final round with a brilliant 7-under 64. His victory led to a tournament record total of 28-under 256 at TPC Deere Run.

Brian Campbell (2025): He overcame Emiliano Grillo via a playoff after finishing 18-under 266 and won his second PGA Tour title in the year.

Bottom Line

More than 5 decades later, the tournament is still one of the most popular destinations on the PGA Tour.  Looking back through John Deere Classic history, it’s clear that legends can start small.