CONOVER, N.C. -- The Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn Presented by Kia, a Champions Tour golf tournament at Rock Barn Golf & Spa, has extended its agreement with the Tour through 2007, with the possibility for further extensions open.

The announcement was made by tournament and Champions Tour officials during a press conference Tuesday at Rock Barn Golf & Spa in Conover, N.C..

The 2007 dates for the weeklong event are set for Sept. 10-16. The 2007 Champions Tour schedule will be released later this year.

Over the past three years, the Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn Presented by Kia has drawn approximately 80,000 - 90,000 spectators annually, excluding the 2005 event, which was plagued by rain.

The fourth renewal of the tournament, Sept. 25-Oct. 1, 2006, is on track to match those expectations and features the return of the event's three past champions, Craig Stadler (2003), Doug Tewell (2004) and Jay Haas (2005).

"Since the inaugural Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn in 2003, the tournament has had the great pleasure of bringing Champions Tour golf to Western North Carolina and significantly giving back to area charities," said Don Beaver, president and CEO, Rock Barn Golf & Spa. "Our community has embraced the tournament with open arms, and we are very proud to continue its legacy with this extension by the Champions Tour."

"With strong attendance and community support, the Greater Hickory Classic at Rock Barn has been a wonderful addition to the Champions Tour since coming on board in 2003," said Champions Tour President Rick George. "We are as excited as the Rock Barn Golf & Spa officials are about this extension through 2007. Don Beaver and his entire organization are to be congratulated for the leadership and commitment they have provided in promoting the tournament and the Greater Hickory area. The Champions Tour is very pleased with our partnership with them."