Professional golf is full of traditions and rituals that make each tournament unique. Last year, the Rocket Mortgage Classic was the stage where Rickie Fowler triumphantly broke his three-year winless drought, igniting fans and his career. He would be looking to defend his hard-earned title, as round one of the RMC has taken off to find its champion. 

But what happens behind the scenes when a champion is crowned? From the storied history of the Masters to the excitement of the Rocket Mortgage Classic, every event has its special charm. A little-known tradition has been gaining momentum, and it’s about to make its mark on the golf world in a big way. 

Rickie Fowler’s flavorful honor with a personalized tribute

Rickie Fowler received a mouthwatering surprise at his pre-tournament presser in the Detroit Golf Club – his very own signature sandwich, “Rick’s Pick”! That’s right, a sandwich. This tasty tribute is part of the Rocket Mortgage Classic’s unique tradition of honoring champions, which started last year, with a special concession for the fans the following year. It’s not quite hosting the Master’s Champions Dinner, but it’s a delicate touch.

Last year’s winner, Tony Finau, inspired the “Finau Fitu” and now fans can delight their taste buds with “Rick’s Pick” at the Detroit Golf Club. Chef Colin John of caterer Forte Belanger collaborated with Fowler’s wife, Allison, and his team to craft the perfect sandwich. 

On how the sandwich was made, and the ingredients used Chef John said, “It’s on a brioche bun with Boar’s Head Cajun turkey with shredded lettuce, pickles, pepperoncinis, mayonnaise, and then it has vinegar, oil and oregano on it as well. So not crazy, we didn’t want to overthink it, so I know sandwiches are one of your favorite foods. So dig in, let us know what you think.”

“I appreciate it,“ the 35-year-old responded with surprise.

He also added how often he likes to eat sandwiches, “This is one of my standard kind of go-to orders for lunch back home, whether it’s at the course or a local sandwich shop. Hopefully, fans here will be able to enjoy it a little bit.”

They not only introduced this to the 6-times PGA Tour winner, but the assembled media members also got to enjoy it. Many fans would also wonder how this all started; honoring the champions and treating them with a custom culinary creation. So let’s delve a bit more into this.

Honoring champions, a tradition born with legendary Ben Hogan

We already know that the Masters is famously referred to as “a tradition unlike any other.“ But perhaps one of the most exclusive is the Champions Dinner, where the defending champion curates a menu that showcases their personal taste. Going back to 1952 when Ben Hogan, the 64-time winner on the PGA Tour, started the Masters Club dinner as an idea for all the Masters champions to have dinner together. 

From then on, this became an annual event, typically on the Tuesday before the tournament begins. This year, Jon Rahm hosted this year’s dinner in his Spanish style. His menu included Gernika peppers, Gildas (an anchovy skewer), and lentil stew. In 2023, World No.1 Scottie Scheffler, a Texas native, had a delicious Tex-Mex-style offering during his dinner. Before that the Japanese, Hideki Matsuyama, the 2021 Masters champion, had a menu featuring sushi and wagyu beef. 

The list keeps on going, but the tradition stays. The dinner allows them to share stories, reflect on their victories, and enjoy each other’s company in an intimate setting. Now, Rocket Mortgage Classic’s initiative adds to the honor of the previous champions, and the best part? Fans get to enjoy it too! What do you think of this year’s “Rick’s Pick”? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.