The Rich History of the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am
Introduction
The AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am, often referred to simply as the "Pebble Beach Pro-Am," stands as one of the most iconic events on the PGA Tour. Known for its blend of professional golf with celebrity participation, this tournament has carved out a unique niche in the world of golf, combining competitive sports with entertainment and philanthropy. Let's delve into its storied history.
The Birth of the Crosby Clambake
The Pebble Beach Pro-Am began in 1937, initially known as the Bing Crosby Pro-Amateur Golf Championship or the "Crosby Clambake." Bing Crosby, a singing sensation of the time and an avid golfer, conceived the idea to pair professional golfers with amateurs, including celebrities, for a fun, charity-focused event. The inaugural tournament took place at the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club in California, with Sam Snead taking home the first victory, setting a precedent for the event's allure.
A Pivotal Move to Pebble Beach
After World War II, the tournament found its permanent home on the Monterey Peninsula, starting in 1947. Here, it utilized the scenic and challenging Pebble Beach Golf Links, along with other courses like Cypress Point Club and Monterey Peninsula Country Club. This move not only elevated the tournament's prestige but also made it synonymous with the breathtaking beauty of Pebble Beach, enhancing its appeal to both players and spectators.
Evolution Through the Decades
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1950s - 1970s: The event grew in popularity, drawing top golfers and celebrities alike. It was during these years that the tournament became a televised event, significantly increasing its visibility and cementing its status in golf lore.
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Post-Crosby Era: Following Bing Crosby's death in 1977, his family continued hosting the event until 1985. After that, the name was changed to reflect new sponsors, eventually becoming the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am in 1986 when AT&T took over as the title sponsor.
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Modern Changes: Over the years, the tournament format has evolved. Initially, it included three courses for the first three days, with the cut for both pros and amateurs, followed by a final day at Pebble Beach. However, recent changes have seen the field reduced to 80 professionals and amateurs, with only the pros playing the final two days at Pebble Beach, reflecting its status as a PGA Tour Signature Event.
Notable Moments and Champions
The Pebble Beach Pro-Am has hosted some of golf's greatest moments:
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Champions: Legends like Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Tiger Woods, and Phil Mickelson have all won this event, with Mickelson holding the record for the most victories with five.
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Course Records: Players have occasionally broken course records, with Wyndham Clark's 12-under 60 in 2024 setting a new benchmark for the lowest score at Pebble Beach Golf Links.
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Celebrity Participation: The tournament is famous for its blend of professional and amateur play. Celebrities like Bill Murray, Huey Lewis, and even former president George W. Bush have participated, adding a unique flavor to the event.
Charitable Impact
One of the most enduring aspects of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is its commitment to charity. The Monterey Peninsula Foundation, which organizes the tournament, has donated millions to local and national charities, with contributions surpassing $200 million, making it one of the most significant charity events in sports.
The Signature Event Era
As of 2024, the tournament has been designated as a PGA Tour Signature Event, which means a smaller, more elite field, no cut, and a significantly larger purse, emphasizing its importance within the golfing calendar. This shift underscores the event's evolution from a fun, celebrity-filled weekend to a major stop on the PGA Tour with significant implications for players' rankings and earnings.
Conclusion
The AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am has transcended its origins to become more than just a golf tournament; it's a cultural phenomenon that celebrates the spirit of golf, entertainment, and community. With its rich history, scenic beauty, and commitment to giving back, it continues to be a cherished event on the PGA Tour schedule, promising many more memorable moments in the years to come.
2025 PGA Tour Events
January
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Dec. 30-Jan. 5: The Sentry - Plantation Course at Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii
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Jan. 6-12: Sony Open in Hawaii - Waialae Country Club, Honolulu, Hawaii
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Jan. 13-19: The American Express - PGA West (Stadium Course, Nicklaus Tournament Course, La Quinta Country Club), La Quinta, California
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Jan. 20-25: Farmers Insurance Open (Saturday finish) - Torrey Pines Golf Course (South Course, North Course), San Diego, California
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Jan. 27-Feb. 2: AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am - Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, Pebble Beach, California
February
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Feb. 3-9: WM Phoenix Open - TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course), Scottsdale, Arizona
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Feb. 10-16: Genesis Invitational - The Riviera Country Club, Pacific Palisades, California
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Feb. 17-23: Mexico Open at Vidanta - Vidanta Vallarta, Vallarta, Mexico
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Feb. 24-Mar. 2: The Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches - PGA National Resort (Champion Course), Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
March
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Mar. 3-9: Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard - Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club and Lodge, Orlando, Florida
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Mar. 3-9: Puerto Rico Open - Grand Reserve Golf Club, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico
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Mar. 10-16: The Players Championship - TPC Sawgrass (The Players Stadium Course), Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida
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Mar. 17-23: Valspar Championship - Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course), Palm Harbor, Florida
April
May
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May 1-4: THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson - TPC Craig Ranch, McKinney, TX
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May 8-11: Truist Championship - The Philadelphia Cricket Club (Wissahickon Course), Philadelphia, PA
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May 8-11: Myrtle Beach Classic - Dunes Golf and Beach Club, Myrtle Beach, SC
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May 15-18: PGA Championship - Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, NC
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May 22-25: Charles Schwab Challenge - Colonial Country Club, Fort Worth, TX
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May 29-Jun. 1: the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday - Muirfield Village Golf Club, Dublin, OH
June
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Jun. 5-8: RBC Canadian Open - TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley (North Course), Canada
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Jun. 9-15: U.S. Open - Oakmont Country Club, Oakmont, Pennsylvania
July
August
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