LPGA Tour Begins Thursday In Montgomery County

POTTSTOWN, PA — Some of the top golfers in the world have descended on Montgomery County as the LPGA Tour continues this week with the inaugural Valley Forge Invitational.

The event will take place at Raven's Claw Golf Club in Pottstown from Thursday through Saturday, May 24-26. It's the only LPGA event in Pennsylvania.

The Valley Forge Invitational is one of three new events on the tour in 2018, which includes the top elite female golfers from around the world. All told, there are 21 events throughout the year.

It's being organized by the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board.

"Having an event of this caliber will have a hugely positive economic impact on Montgomery County and the region," said President and CEO of the Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board, Mike Bowman. "Besides highlighting women's professional golf, the Tour spotlights Raven's Claw, and the more than 50 other great public courses and private clubs that we have in Montco."

Two Montgomery County natives - Emily Gimpel and Isabella DiLisio - are among the competitors.

Officials estimated that Montgomery County can expect up to 10,000 people in attendance at the event, 600 hotel room nights, and $1 million in economic impact due to the event.

Competition begins at 7 a.m. Thursday.

Image of Montgomery County native and professional golfer Emily Gimpel courtesy Valley Forge Tourism Board