The Principal Charity Classic announced Tuesday that its 2020 tournament raised a record $6.7 million in support of Iowa kids despite the event being canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Organizers sustained support from thousands of fans, sponsors and volunteers, helping top last year’s record by more than $1 million, according to a press release. The 2020 tournament was originally scheduled to be held in May, was postponed to September and then was canceled due to COVID-19. 

“The dollar amount is impressive and reflects the generosity of our community during a difficult time,” said Dan Houston, chairman, president and CEO of Principal Financial Group, in a statement. “More than 95% of our sponsors, ticket holders, and volunteers chose to donate to this year’s event or allocate their donation to next year’s tournament. That is an incredible testament to our collective resilience, and it makes a huge difference in the lives of Iowa children.”
   
The Principal Charity Classic has an impact on the lives of more than 130,000 kids each year in philanthropic areas including education and culture, financial security and stability, and health and wellness. The tournament has raised more than $30 million since Principal signed on as title sponsor in 2007. 

“We pivoted several times, but never lost focus on the tournament’s purpose,” said tournament director Douglas K. Habgood. “To give back to Iowa kids at this level during a time like this is remarkable.” 

The tournament trophy – which typically bears the name of the year’s golf champion – lists Iowa children as the winners this year.  

Tournament proceeds provide support to four Tournament Charity Partners in the Des Moines area: Blank Children’s Hospital, MercyOne Des Moines, the United Way of Central Iowa and Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa. Additionally, it supports nearly 100 Birdies for Charity programs throughout the state.   

The next Principal Charity Classic is set for June 1-6, 2021, at the Wakonda Club. All tickets purchased for the 2020 tournament will be honored in 2021. For more information, visit www.PrincipalCharityClassic.com.