Genesis Open - TGR - TGR LIVE Tiger Woods Foundation Invite!
The 2022 Genesis invitational was an incredible experience for 50 Vets Whole In One community members. Dave Klewan, General Manager of The Genesis Invitational and TGR Live | TGR Foundation – a Tiger Woods Charity, invited our community to a special heartfelt experience they won’t soon forget.
In addition to providing our group with a VIP shuttle service to and from the event, we were extended free entry on a day not open to the general Public . Making the event even more incredible, Dave and the TGR foundation created a special surprise moment for the group later in the day.
Our day began with our Vets Hole In One community meeting at the Heroes Golf Course on the West Los Angeles, VA campus. Once everyone was parked and had gathered, Stephen Islas our beloved mindfulness expert led us in a unifying and grounding meditation. Once we were settled and calm, Jim Dennerline our head honcho in chief, shared the days itinerary.
Soon after, two VIP shuttles arrived to transport our community members to the famous Riveira Country Club. Everyone excitedly boarded the shuttles with a sense of happy anticipation. After the short ride over to Riviera, we were let out at the main entrance where the public would have access the following day. As we walked along the entrance path to the golf course we could see pictures of past champions and all the new vehicles from the events main sponsor.
Once past the entrance we entered the pristine golf course on the number one fairway. looking up and to the right you could see the majestic Riviera club house sitting atop the hill overlooking the entire property. We all walked towards the hill and driving range area where we were asked to meet up for lunch, and later at the Tito’s lounge at 2 PM for a special event being prepared just for our group. Some of the members went to the driving range to watch the best players in the world warm up for their golf rounds, others went up to the clubhouse to you see the pros putting and get a look at the course from up above. Still others went walking around the golf course to observe the players playing in their Pro/Am event. It was quite an incredible experience to be standing next to Jordan Spieth or any of the other very famous golf professionals, and be able to listen into the conversations they were having with their coaches and caddies. It was especially unique and rare to listen in because there was no public allowed in that day. After everyone wandered around and did their thing, we met back at noon for a quick lunch, we then parted ways in separate groups until the special 2 o’clock rendezvous.
At 2 o’clock, next to the driving range, was the Titos lounge meeting point. All of the Vets Whole In One community started gathering and talking about theirs experiences so far, everyone seemed to be having a great time. As we waited for the special unknown event, one could sense the energy building up. All of a sudden Dave Klewan and Bubba Watson pro golfer with two Masters wins, came walking up to hang out with our group! Bubba was an incredible Person, so genuine, sincere, and humble. He said it was an honor to be speaking to the veterans and his privilege to do so. I believe he meant it, Because of the way he was so sincere, honest, and open hearted. The way he spoke to the group was very special, Bubba answered all kinds of questions about tournament golf, golf improvement, mental game, and about life in general. He took so much time and care to answer all the questions asked, and discussed in great detail about past areas in his life that that were very difficult. He discussed how he was able to ask god for help, surrender to him, and eventually overcome his adversities. It was very emotional and an amazing surprise for those lucky enough to be present. After taking countless selfies and a group picture with us, Bubba was off to prepare for the tournament. After the special event, we were able to watch a little more of the pros on the driving range and before heading to the shuttle for our return trip.
All of the Vets Whole in One, community were all incredibly grateful for the chance to experience such an amazing event! We are so thankful for the invitation from Riviera Country Club, the PGA Tour, and the TGR LIVE & Tiger Woods Foundation for inviting our group. They took such amazing care of us, and we hope to return next year to create even more incredible memories for our veteran community.
