The Genesis Invitational, a staple of the golfing calendar since 1999, will find a temporary home at Torrey Pines in San Diego this year. Originally slated for the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, the event relocates due to devastating wildfires in the Los Angeles area. These fires have tragically claimed the lives of at least 29 individuals, including members of the Pacific Palisades community. The decision to move the tournament aims to aid Southern California's recovery efforts.
Tiger Woods, the esteemed host of the Genesis Invitational, underscored the importance of retaining the tournament within Southern California. He expressed that San Diego's ability to accommodate the event while remaining in the region was a significant factor in this relocation.
"The fact that with the city of San Diego we were able to stay within Southern California," Woods stated, highlighting the regional continuity.
The Genesis Invitational, renowned for its longstanding association with Riviera Country Club, plans to return to its traditional venue next year. Despite the wildfires, Riviera's course remains unscathed, ensuring future events can continue as planned.
Woods, who has hosted this prestigious tournament since its inception at Riviera, has faced his own challenges recently. Following his sixth back surgery, his participation in PGA Tour events last year was notably limited. Woods appeared in only five tournaments, missing three cuts and withdrawing from his own event due to illness. Nevertheless, his illustrious career boasts a record 15 major championship victories.
In recent months, Woods has kept busy with various endeavors. He partnered with his son Charlie in the PNC Championship exhibition and co-founded the indoor golf league TGL, which is currently in its inaugural season. Despite finishing last among those who made the cut at the Masters, Woods continues to leave an indelible mark on the golfing world.
As the Genesis Invitational makes its temporary home at Torrey Pines, Woods believes this move could offer more than just continuity for fans and players.
"I think because we're in Southern California, I think we're going to be able to raise more money for all the losses that have incurred," he remarked optimistically.
Leave a Reply