This year marks the 14th anniversary of the Knicker Open, an event dedicated to giving back to those who defend and protect our freedom. Over the past 13 years, the Knicker Open Charities have raised over $950,000, a testament to the generosity of our participants and sponsors.
Last year, we donated a record $150,000 to Folds of Honor, an organization that provides educational scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled service members. This year, we aim to continue this tradition of generosity and surpass previous milestones, making a greater impact through our shared commitment.
The Knicker Open will be played on Courses 1 and 2 at Medinah Country Club, but the spotlight is on the legendary Course #3, which has hosted numerous high-profile tournaments, including the 2019 BMW Championship, the 2012 Ryder Cup, two PGA Championships, three U.S. Opens, the 1988 U.S. Senior Open, and several Western Opens. Medinah will also host the 2026 Presidents Cup, making it the fifth U.S. venue to feature this prestigious event.
This year is especially significant as we celebrate Medinah's 100th anniversary, making our event even more memorable. It is truly a privilege for the Knicker Open to play on this historic course, as only a select group of non-profits have the honor.
This unique event draws over 200 golfers who compete for the coveted Payne Stewart Award, named after the legendary golfer known for his bold style, joyous spirit, and philanthropic legacy. Inspired by Stewart, Mike Piraino and his friends founded the Knicker Open to blend fun and giving back, rallying their community to don traditional knicker pants, laugh, eat, and drink—all in the name of charity.
So why do golfers gather in knickers to play? It’s simple: they want to enjoy an unforgettable day of camaraderie on an iconic course while supporting a worthy cause. As we like to say, “It doesn’t get any better than that!”
