The Farmers Insurance Open is back at the Torrey Pines Golf Course.
The Farmers Insurance Open conjures images of a pristine golf course overlooking the Pacific Ocean while watching some of the world’s best golfers up close.
Encinitas resident Robbie Cardwell and his family are enjoying their fifth Farmers Insurance Open.
“There’s nothing like it,” Cardwell said, “Honestly, to watch these guys hit their tee shots and play their game is something special and to have it in our backyard is even more special. So, we’re really stoked to be here.”
But the first major televised golf tournament of 2022 is more than just a world-class golf tournament, thanks to the efforts of the Century Club of San Diego.
The Century Club operates the entire Farmers Insurance Open and their Champions for Youth charitable program benefits six local charities that support young people.
“Using the tournament to help raise awareness about our city, the charities and the initiatives we are trying to achieve, that’s what it’s all about,” said Mike Metz, the chairman of the Century Club. “This platform of golf can help change a person’s life, change people’s lives and kid’s lives and move them in the right direction where they can thrive as adults.”
The Century Club helps with more than just money. “That’s obviously necessary," Metz said. "But getting involved in the organization intimately, going to their location and helping with fixing up their properties and providing guidance and mentorship to these kids.”
And the fans agree.
“It’s nice to see that they’re sharing some profits with organizations that need it,” Cardwell said. “I think that’s going to inspire a new generation and I think that’s part of the purpose is to create inspiration and show these kids that there are dreams that they can fulfill.”
Fifth-grader Haelyn Libby has been playing golf for three years and she loves how the Century Club helps young people play golf.
“That’s super awesome because kids should have opportunities to play sports as well no matter where they come from or where they live,” Libby said.
Libby is excited to be able to watch golf in person again.
“It feels really awesome that I get to have these experiences, especially with my dad, it’s so cool because I love golf so much,” Libby said.
The Farmers Insurance Open wraps up this weekend.
