NAPLES, Florida – From the birdie on the first hole on the first day of his first Champions Tour career, 50-year old rookie George McNeill left little doubt he belonged. In fact, the Naples native made a statement by birdieing his first three holes in Round One enroute to a 2-under par, 70, at Tiburon Golf Club in the 39th edition of the Chubb Classic.
In a week to remember, which has taken a lifetime to prepare for, McNeill posted rounds of 70-69-68 total 207 to finish at 9-under and T-5. Looking poised and confident in windy conditions in the final round, he fired a 2-under 33 on the front, then going deep on the back nine for another 2-under. He pocketed his first Champions Tour check for $79,200 from the $1.8 million purse.
“This has been an incredible week,” said McNeill after signing for the 68, second lowest round of the day. “It’s taken alot of preparation to get to this level and so far it has paid off.”
During his PGA Tour career McNeill made 324 career starts and posted 21 top 10 finishes including two victories at the 2007 Fry.com Open and 2012 Puerto Rico Open. His career earnings top just over $12 million. McNeill turned 50 in October and to prepare for his second career on Champions Tour, he played in 13 PGA and Korn Ferry tournaments in 2025, his busiest ever.
This was a home game of sorts for McNeill, who resides in Fort Myers and is an honorary member at Fiddlesticks Country Club, where he frequently uses the practice range. He said it was special to have the opportunity to begin the next stage of his professional career so close to home. McNeill said he welcomed the challenge even though it comes with nervousness and excitement…