Countdown to Truist Championship: Massive build underway ahead of May tournament

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The countdown is on for one of Charlotte’s biggest sporting events of the year. The Truist Championship is set to tee off May 6, but before the first swing, a massive transformation is already underway behind the scenes.

From the outside, Quail Hollow Club may look like a typical golf course. But inside, crews are building what organizers describe as a small city designed to host thousands of fans.

Construction began in early February, and the scale of the operation is significant. More than 143,000 square feet of tenting and over 240,000 square feet of flooring are being installed, along with 136 temporary structures across the course.

Add in hundreds of golf carts and more than 2,400 volunteers, and the championship quickly becomes one of the largest temporary builds in the region.

“Beyond great competition and this beautiful property, I think it’s all about community and fan engagement,” Sam Harker, director of operations for the championship, said.

Organizers say a key part of that experience comes from local involvement. Charlotte-based businesses are playing a major role in bringing the event to life, from construction crews to food vendors and restaurants.

“Bringing local food partners, restaurants the culinary aspect of Charlotte as a whole, making sure that it feels like Charlotte,” Harker said. “And everyone’s able to get around and be safe and have fun when they do it.”

Health and safety are also a major focus this year. Atrium Health will have a strong presence at the event, including a family care suite equipped to handle everything from minor medical needs to emergencies.

“Biggest thing is making sure everyone’s safe,” Atrium Health Dr. Joseph Blackwell said.

Blackwell is encouraging fans to prepare ahead of time, especially with warm temperatures expected during tournament week.

“Have a good time. Make sure you’re staying hydrated. Start a couple days before,” Blackwell explained. “Drink plenty of fluid, supplement with some electrolytes, make sure to eat good, healthy meals the night before. It’s a lot of walking, it’s going to be hot.”

He also recommends wearing sunscreen, taking breaks in shaded areas and bringing an empty water bottle to refill at hydration stations throughout the course.

With final preparations underway, organizers say everything will be in place when golfers tee off in just a couple of weeks.

Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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