The AutoZone Liberty Bowl is celebrating its 50th Anniversary in 2008 with numerous events throughout the year leading up to the 50th AutoZone Liberty Bowl Football Classic in December.

The AutoZone Liberty Bowl Legends Dinner and Golf Tournament will feature head coaches and star players from past AutoZone Liberty Bowl games. The Legends Dinner will be held Sunday, July 20 at The Peabody Hotel. The Golf Tournament will be held Monday, July 21 at Ridgeway Country Club. Both events will benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Former Ole Miss quarterback Archie Manning, star of the 1968 AutoZone Liberty Bowl, will be among the legends attending the Dinner. Manning passed for 141 yards and 2 touchdowns as the Rebels defeated Virginia Tech 34-17 in the 1968 game.

“We’re inviting the entire Mid-South community to join us in celebrating the AutoZone Liberty Bowl’s 50th Anniversary,” said Steve Ehrhart, AutoZone Liberty Bowl Executive Director. “The AutoZone Liberty Bowl is the 7th oldest bowl game in America. Over its long, rich history, the AutoZone Liberty Bowl has featured many of college football’s legendary coaches and players. We hope everyone will be a part of our year-long party and celebration”.

Additional 50th Anniversary events and recognitions will be announced later.