A classic is an outstanding example of a particular style, something of lasting worth or with a timeless quality. … Classic is used to describe many major, long-standing sporting events.
(src: WP, see link below).
See also, the section on Sport in the Wikipedia article 'Classic:'
- The section on Sport in the Wikipedia article 'Classic:'
Many sporting events take the name classic …
- AHD cited in TFD
- A traditional event, especially a major sporting event that is held annually: a golf classic.