The PGA Tour is currently monitoring the situation regarding the wildfires in Los Angeles that have impacted the Pacific Palisades area, where Riviera Country Club is located, the host venue for the upcoming Genesis Invitational. Here are the known details regarding their plans:
- Monitoring Situation: The PGA Tour has informed its membership that it is actively monitoring the wildfires. As of the latest updates, the course at Riviera Country Club has not been directly affected by the fires, but it is within the mandatory evacuation zone, which could impact logistics, infrastructure, and safety considerations for hosting the event.
- Decision Pending: No final decision has been made on whether the Genesis Invitational will proceed at Riviera as planned. The PGA Tour has stated that it is premature to discuss the potential impact on the tournament, focusing instead on the health and welfare of communities affected by the fires.
- Alternative Plans: If necessary, the PGA Tour is considering alternatives:
- One option is relocating the event. TPC Scottsdale, which is scheduled to host the WM Phoenix Open the week before the Genesis Invitational, could potentially host back-to-back events.
- Other venues mentioned include Trump International Los Angeles, Sherwood Country Club, and possibly reaching out to the Los Angeles Country Club or venues like Valencia Country Club, which have hosted the event in the past under different circumstances.
- Logistical Concerns: Even if Riviera remains undamaged, logistical issues like player and fan access, lodging, and the deployment of emergency services for recovery efforts could complicate hosting the event at its traditional venue.
- Public Sentiment: There’s also consideration about the optics of holding a golf tournament in an area recently devastated by wildfires, which might influence the decision-making process.
The PGA Tour has committed to keeping its membership updated as the situation develops, suggesting a cautious approach to finalizing plans for the Genesis Invitational. Given the dynamic nature of the situation, any decision could change based on the progression of the fires and recovery efforts.
Advertisement
