A Century of Champions: Why the Genesis Invitational and the Long Beach Open Deserve to Be Celebrated Together

In 2026, Southern California stands at a rare and historic intersection. Two of our region’s most storied tournaments—the Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club and the Long Beach Open—are reaching their 100-year milestones.

One is a global spectacle, broadcast to millions and backed by the PGA TOUR. The other, despite a history just as deep and a winner’s list just as legendary, is approaching its centennial quietly.

This isn't a criticism; it’s an invitation. It’s an invitation to remember what these tournaments once were, what they mean to us today, and the incredible potential they hold for the next century.

A Tale of Two Centennials

Southern California has long been a proving ground for the greats. Riviera's fairways have seen the likes of Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, and Tiger Woods. Its centennial is rightfully being met with global media attention.

But Riviera is not the only giant turning 100.

The Long Beach Open: The Hidden Legacy

Long before the modern tour schedule, the Long Beach Men’s City Championship and the Long Beach Open were essential stops for rising stars. The list of past champions isn't just a list of names—it’s a Hall of Fame roster:

• Walter Hagen (1928)

• Tommy Armour (1927)

• Ben Hogan (1949)

• Cary Middlecoff (1951)

• Charlie Sifford (1957)

In the modern era, the pipeline has continued, launching the careers of Kevin Na, Scott McCarron, and Long Beach native Paul Goydos.

A Community Treasure Hiding in Plain Sight

The Long Beach Golf Festival remains one of the largest of its kind in the country, bringing together over 700 golfers and 1,500 rounds of competition annually. It unites juniors, amateurs, and pros in a way few cities can match.

However, compared to the city’s other major assets—like the Grand Prix or the Marathon—the Long Beach Open has lacked the same level of investment and national positioning. A 100-year anniversary is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change that.

Elevating the Next 100 Years

What would it take to restore the Long Beach Open to its former glory? The ingredients are already there:

1. Increased Sponsorship: Moving from local partnerships to larger corporate support.

2. A Modern Media Strategy: Using storytelling and social media to highlight the "pro-pathway" legacy.

3. Community Activation: Engaging junior programs and adaptive golf organizations to make it a true city-wide festival.

4. Centennial Branding: Using this milestone to create a "can't-miss" atmosphere for the 2026 season.

Why This Matters for Long Beach

A revitalized Open isn't just about golf. It’s a boost for local tourism, a spotlight on our city as a sports destination, and a way to inspire the next generation of players at courses like Recreation Park.

The next 100 years start now. We want to hear from you—the players, the fans, and the residents. What do YOU want the Long Beach Open and Golf Festival to become?

Long Beach golf has a story worth telling. Let’s make sure the next chapter is the biggest one yet.