Charlotte Volunteers Power Golf Tournament With Thousands of Hours

When golf's biggest names arrive at Charlotte's Quail Hollow Club, they find something special waiting: a tournament powered entirely by hometown heart.

Thousands of volunteers in purple attire work throughout the Truist Championship week, checking tickets, directing crowds, and helping guests navigate the course. For many, like Terry Ray, showing up isn't just a one-time thing.

Ray has volunteered at Quail Hollow every single year since 2003. He's stationed at hole 17, which he calls the best spot on the course.

"The people are what make it for me," Ray said. His mission each shift is simple: make sure every fan has a great time.

That dedication doesn't go unnoticed. Attendee Chase Walter said the volunteer presence makes a real difference at the tournament.

"They kind of know everything that's going on with the tournament," Walter said. "It's really cool to see that the whole community comes out to put on a tournament like this, and they do a phenomenal job every single time."

The community connection extends beyond volunteers. Local food vendors like Sabor Latin Grill serve thousands of visitors, introducing people from across the country to Charlotte flavors.

Operations manager Marco Gonzalez said many out-of-town guests try the food and ask where they can find the full restaurant. Events like this do more than drive sales—they put local businesses on the map.

Charlotte-based 704 Shop also has a presence at the tournament, giving visitors a chance to take home a piece of the city. Co-founder Chris Moxley said none of it would happen without Charlotte rallying around local brands first.

The Ripple Effect

What makes the Truist Championship special isn't just world-class golf. It's how the event weaves Charlotte into every corner of the experience, from the food vendors to the volunteers who return year after year.

For volunteers logging long hours on their feet, the payoff comes in moments of connection. They meet people from across the country and help showcase their city on a national stage.

Ray said his goal is simple but powerful: engage with fans and ensure they have the best possible time, no matter which hole they're watching or which player they're following.

The tournament gives Charlotte a chance to show what it's made of, one helpful volunteer and one local business at a time.