Will the Genesis Invitational be played this year?
The upcoming Genesis Invitational faces uncertainty as the Los Angeles area grapples with devastating wildfires. While Riviera Country Club, located in Pacific Palisades, has escaped direct damage, the surrounding areas have been severely impacted.
The PGA Tour has acknowledged the situation and stated that they are closely monitoring the evolving conditions. The decision on whether to proceed with the tournament as scheduled (February 13-16) or consider alternative options, such as relocation or postponement, will depend on various factors:
- Air Quality: The immediate concern is the air quality in and around Pacific Palisades. Thick smoke and hazardous particulate matter could pose health risks to players, spectators, and staff.
- Safety and Infrastructure: Evaluating the safety of travel and logistics for players, officials, and fans is crucial. Road closures and infrastructure damage could disrupt transportation and operations.
- Community Impact: Hosting a major sporting event while the community is still recovering from a significant disaster could be perceived as insensitive. The PGA Tour will likely prioritize the well-being of the affected residents.
While Riviera Country Club itself may be playable, the broader context of the wildfires will heavily influence the final decision regarding the Genesis Invitational.
It has been speculated that it will be difficult for the Genesis Invitational to be played at Riviera, considering the devastation not far from the course in Pacific Palisades, as well as the availability of police and fire support, as well as hotel rooms that may now be occupied by fire refugees.
There are a few sites that would have the course setup and infrastructure available to accommodate the event including:
- The Stadium Course or Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West, La Quinta, Calif.
- Torrey Pines, San Diego
- TPC Scottsdale
Unfortunately, other courses in the area did not survive as well as Riviera. Included among the buildings destroyed in the devastating fires were the structures at Altadena Golf Course, home to roughly 100 employees who are now out of work indefinitely. Multiple employees working for golf industry associations as well as PGA Pros at golf courses in the region have reportedly lost their homes as well.
The California Golf Course Owners Association (CGCOA) is seeking donations to assist those golf industry personnel who have lost their homes and/or their sources of income as a result of these fires. They have set up a gofundme and will work closely with the employers of those affected to ensure that the funds are directed to employees based on individual need.
To donate, click here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/wildfire-relief-for-southern-california-golf-employees