As this Memorial Day weekend approaches in Grants Pass, one of Boatnik’s most recognizable traditions is preparing to return to the banks of the Rogue River. The Dutch Bros Golf Shoot-Out is set to begin Friday evening and continue through the weekend, bringing golfers, spectators, and festival crowds together for three days of competition centered around one of the most unusual golf challenges in Southern Oregon.
The annual event combines precision golf with the fast-moving waters of the Rogue River, creating a tournament unlike a traditional round on a golf course. Competitors stand on land near the river and attempt to hit golf balls toward a floating target positioned approximately 130 to 140 yards away on a barge in the middle of the water. The final championship round is scheduled for Sunday following several days of elimination play.
Tournament organizers say only 11 openings remain for Friday’s competition and another 11 spots are still available for Saturday, leaving limited time for golfers hoping to secure a position in the bracket-style tournament. Entry into the event costs $100 per participant, per bracket.
Contestants compete head-to-head in single-elimination match play. Each golfer is given two shots toward the floating target while judges stationed on the 7th Street Bridge determine which player lands closest. The closest competitor advances to the next round until only four finalists remain.
Those final competitors will then attempt the tournament’s most difficult challenge: landing a golf ball directly into a basket mounted above the floating platform for a chance at the event’s top grand prize. Organizers advertise a potential payout of up to $50,000 during the competition weekend, adding to the excitement surrounding the event each year.
In addition to the grand prize opportunity, cash awards will also be distributed to top finishers in the tournament standings. First place is scheduled to receive $1,000, while second through fourth place winners will also earn prize money.
Friday participants are being asked to arrive by 3:30 p.m. ahead of the official 4 p.m. start time. Practice balls will also be available for purchase during the event for $2 each.
The competition has become one of the more recognizable attractions connected to Boatnik festivities, drawing both experienced golfers and first-time participants looking to test their accuracy under pressure. Spectators often line portions of the riverfront and nearby bridges to watch players attempt shots over the Rogue River while tournament officials track distances and determine advancing competitors.
Event rules prohibit current or former professional golfers and recent collegiate players from participating, helping keep the field centered around amateur competition. Participants are allowed to bring their own clubs and golf balls, although no practice or warm-up shots are permitted once tournament play begins.
The Boatnik Golf Shoot-Out arrives as Grants Pass prepares for one of its busiest weekends of the year. Memorial Day weekend traditionally brings thousands of visitors into the region for Boatnik races, parades, festivals, concerts, and river activities, creating a major tourism and economic boost for local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout Josephine County.
