Granbury, Texas, December 4, 2025
Abilene Christian University has announced the inaugural Abilene Christian Intercollegiate, a prominent collegiate golf tournament scheduled for October. Set to take place at Halbert National in Granbury, Texas, the tournament will feature top men’s and women’s collegiate teams competing across three days. The event aims to promote collegiate golf with live coverage from the Golf Channel and will honor notable ACU alum Johnny Perkins for his achievements in athletics.
Abilene, Texas – Inaugural Abilene Christian Intercollegiate Set for October 2026
Abilene Christian University (ACU) has revealed plans for the inaugural Abilene Christian Intercollegiate, a significant collegiate golf tournament scheduled for October 19-21, 2026. This event will mark a multi-year partnership with Golf Channel and HNS Sports Group and will take place at Halbert National, a private golf course in Granbury, Texas.
Event Format and Participants
The tournament will span three days, featuring nine men’s and nine women’s collegiate teams, each competing in three rounds of stroke play. Notable anticipated participants include the University of Oregon, Baylor University, and Purdue University for women’s teams, along with Southern Methodist University, University of Houston, and Texas A&M University for men’s teams.
Course Details
Halbert National, located 40 miles southwest of Fort Worth along Lake Granbury, opened in 2025 and is designed by acclaimed architect Tom Fazio. The 7,542-yard, par-72 course spans over 170 acres and aims to provide a premier golfing atmosphere.
Television Coverage
Golf Channel will broadcast live coverage of all three rounds, ensuring nationwide exposure of collegiate golf.
Honoring Athletic Excellence
This inaugural tournament will also honor Johnny Perkins, a distinguished wide receiver for ACU from 1974-76, who became the program’s all-time leader in receiving yards and earned All-American recognition.
Background on ACU
Founded in 1906, Abilene Christian University is a private Christian college focused on academic excellence and community service, providing a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Collaborative Partners
Golf Channel is a leading network dedicated to golf, providing extensive coverage of golf tournaments. HNS Sports Group specializes in event management within the golf industry, helping optimize sponsorship opportunities for participating companies.
About Halbert National and Its Designer
Halbert National is owned by David D. Halbert, an ACU alumnus and founder of Caris Life Sciences, who collaborated with Tom Fazio to design the course. Fazio is renowned for creating some of the most aesthetically pleasing and strategically challenging golf courses globally.
Legacy of Johnny Perkins
Johnny Perkins achieved significant success at ACU, ultimately being drafted by the New York Giants in 1977, where he played for seven NFL seasons.
About Caris Life Sciences
Caris Life Sciences is a biomedical technology company focused on revolutionizing healthcare through advanced molecular profiling and AI-driven solutions.
About HNS Sports Group
With over 125 years of combined experience, HNS Sports Group provides comprehensive support for golf event management and branding strategies.
About Tom Fazio
Tom Fazio is recognized as one of the forefront figures in golf course architecture, celebrated for both the strategic gameplay and visual beauty of his courses.
About David D. Halbert
David D. Halbert is noted for his contributions to both the medical and golf sectors, specifically in creating quality golfing experiences through Halbert National.
About Johnny Perkins
Johnny Perkins left an indelible mark on ACU football, earning numerous honors and establishing records during his collegiate career.
About HNS Sports Group
HNS Sports Group continues to play an essential role in the golf industry, linking sponsors with valuable opportunities in golf events.
About Caris Life Sciences
Caris Life Sciences is paving the way in precision medicine, committed to leveraging AI and machine learning in healthcare developments.
About Tom Fazio
Tom Fazio’s designs offer innovative and enjoyable playing experiences, widely regarded among the world’s best golf course architects.
About David D. Halbert
David D. Halbert’s impact on both education and healthcare reflects his commitment to both his alma mater and the broader community.
About Johnny Perkins
Johnny Perkins remains an influential figure at ACU, representing the university’s commitment to athletic excellence.
About HNS Sports Group
HNS Sports Group strives to enhance the value of golf sponsorship and participation through their management services.
About Caris Life Sciences
Caris Life Sciences is recognized for its pioneering work in next-generation healthcare solutions.
About Tom Fazio
Tom Fazio’s courses are known for their strategic and creative designs that cater to various skill levels.
About David D. Halbert
David D. Halbert is vital in bridging the worlds of education and medical biotech through his innovative work.
About Johnny Perkins
Johnny Perkins’ legacy in sports continues to inspire future generations of athletes at ACU.
About HNS Sports Group
HNS Sports Group is instrumental in promoting golf through strategic event management.
About Caris Life Sciences
Caris Life Sciences is leading advancements in healthcare technology and precision medicine.
FAQ
When will the Abilene Christian Intercollegiate take place?
The tournament is set for October 19-21, 2026.
Where will the event be hosted?
The event will be held at Halbert National, a private golf course in Granbury, Texas.
Which teams are expected to participate?
Early commitments include teams from the University of Oregon, Baylor University, Purdue University, Southern Methodist University, University of Houston, and Texas A&M University.
What type of coverage will the tournament receive?
The Golf Channel will provide live coverage of all three rounds.
Who is being honored during the tournament?
The tournament will honor Johnny Perkins, a former standout wide receiver for ACU.
Key Features of the Abilene Christian Intercollegiate
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Abilene Christian Intercollegiate |
| Date | October 19-21, 2026 |
| Location | Halbert National, Granbury, Texas |
| Participating Teams | 9 Men’s and 9 Women’s Teams |
| Broadcasting | Live coverage on Golf Channel |
| Honoree | Johnny Perkins |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Halbert National to Host Inaugural Abilene Christian Intercollegiate Tournament
Inaugural Abilene Christian Intercollegiate Golf Tournament Announced
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