RBC sale won’t affect Heritage

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The Heritage Classic Foundation says Royal Bank of Canada’s decision to sell its U.S. retail operations won’t affect its recently announced sponsorship of its PGA Tour event.

A foundation spokeswoman said in an email Monday to The Associated that PNC Financial Services Group Inc.’s purchase won’t change RBC’s five-year agreement to back the Heritage. Boeing Co. will serve as a local sponsor.

PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem and Gov. Nikki Haley were on hand at Harbour Town Golf Links on Thursday for the sponsorship news conference. The Heritage had sought a company to underwrite the tournament since longtime backer Verizon pulled out after 2010. This past April’s tournament was held with about $4 million in foundation reserves and pledges from local governments.