FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Field Set for 2026 International Open as Major Championship Returns to Myrtle Beach February 5th-9th 2026
Myrtle Beach, S.C. — The 2026 International Open will once again anchor the major championship calendar, returning to Myrtle Beach for a five-day competition contested across multiple championship venues. This year we will seeing our players perform at Heritage Club, Caledonia, Legends (Moorland Course), and True Blue.
The annual event will feature a 15-player field, bringing together proven winners, returning contenders, and debuting talent as players compete for major championship honors.
The tournament will proceed without one of its pre-event favorites, as Justin Marler has officially withdrawn after suffering a broken elbow. Marler entered the week as a leading contender, making his withdrawal a significant development before the opening tee shot.
The 2024 International Open champion Brian Bettac returns to Myrtle Beach seeking to defend his title against a strong and diverse lineup. Bettac, who re-enters major championship competition following a 12-month hiatus. Bettac’s comeback adds depth to an already competitive field.
Jan Bettac, returns to the International Open looking to build on his previous showing at the event. Jan enters the week focused on continued improvement and development, with the added opportunity to compete alongside—and learn from—Brian Bettac on the major stage.
Alex Woitas opens his 2026 season at the International Open after recording two runner-up finishes in majors last season. Still searching for his first major victory, Woitas arrives as one of the field’s most consistent recent performers.
Joining him is Jon Woitas, winner of last season’s Grooms Cup Signature Event. With a major title still missing from his résumé, Woitas enters the week highly motivated. His wife, Rachael Woitas, claimed the 2025 Harvest Cup major, and with a new baby on the way, the stakes are particularly meaningful. It’s now or never some are saying.
Clark Melenka makes his return to tournament golf after withdrawing from the 2025 Harvest Cup and subsequently serving a PGL suspension and fines. Myrtle Beach marks his first competitive start since reinstatement.
Jon Shapka returns to a familiar venue as he looks to maintain his position inside the top five of the PGL rankings. Entering the week as one of the strongest title hopefuls, Shapka is expected to be a factor throughout the championship.
The field also welcomes Josh Woitas and Richard Woitas, both making their PGL debuts. Richard Woitas enters the event aiming to make an immediate impact, with aspirations of establishing himself as the top golfer in the family and joining his daughter’s boyfriend as a major champion.
Dustin Andrychuk, makes the trip to Myrtle Beach looking to rebound from a difficult showing at the 2025 Harvest Cup. A top-10 player in the league, Andrychuk enters the week focused on reasserting his position among the game’s elite.
Additional storylines include Brayden Malica making his South Carolina debut. He is entering the event focused on maintaining pace within the field and making a strong push up the leaderboard.
Kenton Mashmeyer returns to the International Open for the second time. Known for his success in simulator competition, Mashmeyer will look to translate those skills to championship-course conditions and is expected to contend.
Mike Serna and Brendin Serna will both make their PGL debuts at the International Open. With limited competitive history at this level, they enter as relative unknowns and potential dark horses.
Mark Herman, who will make the journey to Myrtle Beach after recently recovering from a broken hand. Herman is expected to return to competition shortly after having his cast removed and will look to manage physical challenges as he pursues a major championship opportunity. Event staff will be on hand to administer Toradol shots.
Rounding out the field is Justin Lopushinsky, who enters the International Open following experience on the Saudi-backed professional golf tour. Lopushinsky arrives with international competitive experience and will look to make a strong first impression at the major level.
With multiple courses, a reshaped field, and major championship implications throughout the standings, the 2026 International Open is set to deliver a compelling and highly competitive week of golf in Myrtle Beach.
Stay tuned for scoring updates.
2024 International Open Major Champion – Brian Bettac
