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Golf superstar Tiger Woods has pledged his support to communities devastated by wildfires that killed at least 24 people and changed the face of Los Angeles last week.
The 15-time major champion, born in Cypress, Calif., 25 miles south of Los Angeles, said in a post on affected communities.
“The devastation caused by the Los Angeles fires is such a tragedy and, being from California, it hits home,” Woods said. “My heart goes out to those who have suffered unimaginable loss.
“Thank you to the incredible heroes who are the first responders helping contain and save the Los Angeles community.”
Firefighters, still struggling to contain the massive Palisades and Eaton fires, were preparing for possible flare-ups or new fires as forecasters predicted “particularly dangerous” winds in Santa Ana on Tuesday.
The flames that razed the Pacific Palisades came uncomfortably close to the Riviera Country Club, which is scheduled to host the 2028 Olympic golf tournament.
In 1992, the Los Angeles Open at Riviera was the site of a teenage Woods’ first PGA Tour event. Although he has never won there, Woods is hosting the Genesis Invitational at the historic course, which this year will take place Feb. 13-16.
US media reported that the PGA Tur sent a memo to players last week saying it was monitoring the fires, but it was premature to discuss the impact on the tournament.
“While Riviera Country Club has not been directly impacted by the fires, our immediate concern is the health and well-being of members of the affected communities, including all of our members who have ties to Southern California.” , declared the Tour.
The tournament announced Monday that it has joined apparel maker Fanatics’ apparel sale, with fans able to purchase Fanatics’ “LA Strong” shirts with the Genesis Invitational logo.
The shirts can be purchased online and all proceeds will benefit the American Red Cross and the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.
American golfer Sahith Theegala, born in suburban Orange, California, also pledged to donate to relief efforts. After announcing he would donate $100 per birdie and $250 per eagle to the Sony Open that ended Sunday in Hawaii, Theegala said he would continue that effort in the coming weeks.
“Every little bit helps during this devastating time,” Theegala said.
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