Vlasic Classic is a unique networking event. Founded by cannabis entrepreneur Willy Vlasic, the annual nationwide charity golf tournament is a movement built on purpose, community and philanthropy, all while spending a day on the green—literally and figuratively.
Vlasic Classic is now in its third season, and supports organisations like Freedom Grow and the Last Prisoner Project to free those who have been unjustly imprisoned for non-violent marijuana offenses. It made stops both in Michigan and Missouri. The event brought industry leaders together for a charity weekend that included golf and networking.
The Michigan Classic
First stop on the 28th of June was Cardinal Golf Course, St. John’s Resort Plymouth, Michigan. This venue was chosen deliberately, because the resort is non-profit and all proceeds go to local and international charitable efforts.
Participants were not disappointed by the rare opportunity to experience such a course. This location is also a significant landmark for both sports and the cannabis industry, since it hosts the LIV golf team championship.
This atmosphere had a perfect blend of professionalism, and a touch of personalization. Willy Vlasic’s team produced the entire event with a personal touch. Willy Vlasic’s nephew and father were on hand to greet players prior to the start of play. The personal touch was evident in every aspect, including the relaxed, friendly environment and the thoughtfully selected gift bags.
The event also included an energetic welcome party, sponsored by Kushy Punch, and a concluding after-party, hosted at Willy’s house, with pizza, rosin press demos by Access Rosin and DJ. This was an event that had a great mix between a large, professional scale and a more personal feel.
Activations at every hole—from a longest-putt contest with a weed stalk putter to a $10,000 hole-in-one challenge—kept the energy high, all while driving donations to the cannabis prisoners’ cause.
Interstate networking was also made possible by the combination of Michigan companies, like Vapin’ Ape Hardware, with national brands such as Sweed, a dispensary e-commerce site.
Kellen O’Keefe says that the event was incredible. It’s fantastic that we can deal directly with those who make the decisions. The qualified buyers and people we want to meet are the ones that will be contacted directly. It’s an incredible opportunity to be able play golf for four hours with these people and discuss our product.
Brandy, the account executive at Kushy Punch for Northern Michigan, shared this sentiment. This is my second Vlasic, and I can say that today was a great day for business. She said, “There are many possibilities for Kushy punch, including the ability to reestablish themself.”
Alex Sturton of Vapin’ Ape highlighted shared values by saying: “We love the intersection between sports and cannabis in the Vlasic Classic.” Many people enjoy smoking and participating in competitive activities.
Missouri Classic
Third Annual Missouri Vlasic Classic, August 22-24 at Old Kinderhook. A weekend filled with golfing fun and charity. With 124 players and 37 sponsors representing more than $1 billion annually in revenue across Missouri’s cannabis industry, the event was a testimony to community support.
While the event was full of fun, with rocket ball launchers and drones, as well as a hole called “Beat the Pro”, its serious charitable goals balanced the playful nature. The tournament raised more than $16,000. $10,000 went to Freedom Grow. $5,000 went to the Last Prisoner Project. And $1,300, to Deshaun, to assist him in starting his prelaw degree. Weekend culminated in a massive raffle that included a 3-day Kiawah Island golf trip.
Ricky Williams: Interview with a Champion.
Highsman was one of many sponsors at the Missouri event. The cannabis brand is founded by NFL Legend Ricky Williams. Heisman winner and NFL MVP, Williams has been a pioneer in the relationship that professional sports have developed with cannabis advocacy.
Williams views his partnership with Vlasic Classic more than a simple business decision; it is an extension of the work he has done throughout his life. Williams says that he has never seen cannabis in the context of a mere brand. It’s been more about making things right and healing after years of prohibition.
Williams sees Highsman’s backing of Freedom Grow and the Last Prisoner Project as “justice” in action. Williams believes that an event such as this can create equity within the entertainment industry. It’s also a cause that resonates with him.
Williams’ brand philosophy, “Spark Greatness,” was perfectly reflected on the course. The atmosphere, he says, was “pure competitiveness with lots of laughter and positive energy.” The “sweet spot”, he says, is when you can have fun with a purpose and push yourself. He says, “As an athletic, I’m aware that a sense of community is created when people play together. And, this spirit can be used to fuel philanthropy.”
Ricky Williams stresses that when discussing the Vlasic Classic’s impact, “the most important thing is the impact.” The event’s fundraisers have a profound impact on him. He says that when he sees real dollars being used to support people in need and equity, advocacy is respected. It’s powerful watching change happen. “That’s how I stay grounded.”
Williams believes the unity displayed by the states at the Vlasic Classic will be “absolutely vital” to the future of this industry. Williams says, “It is how we can create scalable changes, change public perceptions, and level playing fields.” “When industry players join forces across borders, we’re not just growing revenue—we’re rewriting the rules for equity, access and innovation.”
A man who challenges norms from his career in football to his private life is an ideal candidate for being a cannabis activist. Williams says: “I don’t just want to use my name, I also want to inspire, disrupt and be honest.” It’s all about creating a path for the future generation so they don’t fight the same wars.
Green Power
Vlasic Classic means so much more that a simple golf tournament. Willy Vlasic declared that the mission will be continued “until all prisoners are released for non-violent Cannabis offenses.” The bold promise of releasing prisoners for non-violent cannabis offenses is being met with real action. One swing, one sponsor, one released prisoner, at a given time.
This event celebrates the strength of the cannabis industry, and shows that, when it comes together with a common purpose, the impact can be felt far beyond green.
The next round of the Vlasic Classic gold tournament tees off again on November 8 at Vegas Vlasic Classic with Nuwu. The Wolf Course, Paiute Resort will be a full day of golf and good cause at The Wolf Course.