Welcome to The Genesis Invitational
What a special year to be back at Riviera. I remember when I was a young boy and use to attend the tournament with my dad. It’s so exciting to now play in and host The Genesis Invitational. This is the first year the tournament has had elevated status as an invitational, joining the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer’s events.
Riviera is a special place to me. To now host an event on the golf course where it all started for me as a 16-year-old kid, I didn’t know at that time what I was getting into. In 1992 I was very lucky to receive a sponsor’s exemption and although shooting 72-75 to miss the cut, it was a motivating experience. Looking back all these years later, to have everything come full circle, and to have the same status as Jack and Arnold, it’s a dream come true.
I want to thank Genesis, the PGA TOUR and all the fans. Your support has allowed this event to achieve elevated status and become an invitational, but more importantly, to help my foundation impact the lives of youth in Los Angeles and around the world.
Through your support of The Genesis Invitational, TGR Foundation has expanded our footprint in Los Angeles nationwide and event world-wide. All proceeds from this week support our mission to empower students to pursue their passions through education. We believe youth should live in a world where opportunity is universal, and potential is limitless. To date, we have inspired over one million students to achieve their dreams through education. This is only the beginning and your participation will help youth in need thrive.
I am proud of the impact this event has made over its history and I look forward to growing the tournament this year and every year. I hope you make lasting memories throughout the week, just like the lasting impact you will make to many students across the country.
