La Jolla never looked more brilliant than at the 2012 Farmer’s Insurance Open, where PGA TOUR Pros, America’s finest beaches and charitable orgs all joined forces to play spectacular golf.
In true form, the brief San Diego storm broke just in time for Tuesday’s first practice rounds, where last year’s winner Bubba Watson, San Diego native Charley Hoffman and youngster Rickie Fowler all took to the greens. Torrey Pines Golf Course needs no introduction as the 2008 US Open host, nor does non-profit organization teaming up with PGA Tour, The Century Club of San Diego – which celebrates 50 years working with the PGA Tour and the city of San Diego to host the event.
On everyone’s minds today was the inaugural PGA Tour Pro practice rounds, an afternoon junior clinic and military appreciation luncheon. Of course, the one-of-a-kind Torrey Pines, and San Diego itself, wasn’t forgotten: Rickie Fowler praised Torrey Pines Golf Course and San Diego’s weather during a promotional event for the Tiger Woods PGA Tour 13 for Kinect. The youngster, who recently shocked the golf world by adding the new Cobra line to his golf bag, took a practice swing with the new EA Sports game of which he dons the cover.
Local star Charley Hoffman sat down early in the event to recap his years playing San Diego courses while still a teen. Having shared the first round with Fowler, Hoffman praised the young athlete for his dedication to the game in all aspects. “He’s a great kid; he gets it. He’s a great golfer and a better person. He doesn’t think he’s bigger or better than the game,” Hoffman said about Rickie.
The Farmers Insurance Open is scheduled through January 29, and marks the third year with Farmers Insurance as title sponsor. More striking is The Century Club of San Diego, a non-profit that has generated more than $22 million for local charities throughout its PGA Tour partnership.
Wednesday, January 25
Zurich Pro-Am, North and South Courses
Thursday, January 26
Opening Ceremonies; 1st Tee South Course 7:30 a.m.
Opening Round at 8:30 a.m.
Friday, January 27
Second Round 8:30 a.m.
Saturday, January 28
Third Round 8:30 a.m.
Sunday, January 29
Final Round 8:30 a.m.
Awards Ceremony on 18th Green
