2026 Hoag Classic Recap: Stewart Cink Shines in Newport Beach

The 2026 Hoag Classic, Orange County’s premier PGA TOUR Champions event, made its highly anticipated return to Newport Beach Country Club the week of March 22–29. With Hoag as title sponsor and McCarthy Building Companies as presenting partner, the tournament once again delivered world-class competition along the Southern California coast.

A standout field of PGA TOUR Champions stars competed for the $2.2 million purse, showcasing a mix of legendary names and proven champions. Among those in contention throughout the week were Ernie Els, Zach Johnson, Bernhard Langer, Vijay Singh, John Daly, Retief Goosen, and Darren Clarke, all adding to the depth and excitement of this year’s competition.

A Defining Moment on 18

At the center of it all was Stewart Cink, whose performance over the weekend will be remembered as one of the most remarkable in tournament history. With the leaderboard tightly contested during Saturday’s round, Cink stepped onto the par-5 18th needing something special to create separation. What followed was a moment that instantly became part of Hoag Classic lore.

From 205 yards away, Cink struck a flawless 6-iron that found the bottom of the cup for an albatross, igniting the gallery with a thunderous roar and shifting the momentum of the championship in dramatic fashion. In a single swing, the tone of the tournament changed. Carrying that momentum into the final round, Cink remained poised and in control. With steady, confident play, he protected his lead throughout Sunday, finishing at 19-under-par to secure a decisive victory.

A Legacy of Impact

Beyond the competition, the Hoag Classic continues to stand as one of the most impactful philanthropic events on the PGA TOUR Champions schedule. The tournament has now generated more than $25 million in total proceeds, benefiting Hoag’s programs and services as well as local educational, youth, military, and first responder charities. From one unforgettable swing to a commanding finish, the 2026 Hoag Classic belonged to Stewart Cink. Set against the backdrop of Newport Beach, the tournament once again delivered elite competition, meaningful community impact, and a championship performance that will be remembered for years to come.