The Waste Management Phoenix Open: From Humble Beginnings to “The Greatest Show on Grass”
The Waste Management (WM) Phoenix Open, affectionately dubbed "The Greatest Show on Grass," is not your grandfather's golf tournament - unless, of course, your grandfather is a Thunderbird, in which case, carry on. Held annually at TPC Scottsdale in early February, this event has evolved from its modest beginnings into a week-long spectacle that attracts over 700,000 enthusiastic fans each year. But it’s not just about golf; it’s about entertainment, community, and a dedication to giving back.
A Rocky Start and a Triumphant Return
The Phoenix Open first teed off in 1932 but faced an early bunker, discontinuing after the 1935 event due to lack of local support. Enter Bob Goldwater, Sr., an avid golfer with a vision sharper than a 9-iron on a par 3. In 1939, he persuaded his fellow Thunderbirds - a civic-minded group formed in 1937 - to revive the tournament. Goldwater’s persuasive pitch and relentless efforts led to the official rebirth of the Phoenix Open.
Who Are the Thunderbirds?
If the WM Phoenix Open is the “Greatest Show on Grass,” then The Thunderbirds are the ringmasters. Formed in 1937, The Thunderbirds are an exclusive philanthropic organization based in Phoenix. Limited to just 55 active members, this group is dedicated to supporting local charities through sports-driven fundraising events.
The Thunderbirds Charities are more than just event organizers - they are the backbone of the WM Phoenix Open’s incredible charitable efforts. Since taking over the tournament, they’ve helped raise over $165 million for local charities. Their primary beneficiaries include the Special Olympics, Boys & Girls Clubs, and the Valley of the Sun United Way, among others. When a Thunderbird reaches age 45, they transition from Active to Life Member, ensuring that even after their official tenure, they continue to support the mission.
Their signature silver pendants and leather thongs worn around their necks are well known at the tournament, and their hands-on approach - whether organizing events, fundraising, or being on the ground at TPC Scottsdale - has made the Phoenix Open one of the most impactful events in the country.
A Who's Who of Golf Legends
Over the decades, the WM Phoenix Open has been a magnet for golf’s elite. The roster of champions reads like a Hall of Fame induction list: Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and more recently, Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, and Rickie Fowler. Each has left an indelible mark on the tournament’s storied history.
The event has also hosted some of the most iconic golf moments - from Tiger Woods’ legendary hole-in-one at the 16th hole in 1997 to Andrew Magee’s hole-in-one on a par 4 in 2001 - the only one in PGA TOUR history.
The Infamous 16th Hole
No discussion of the WM Phoenix Open is complete without mentioning the par-3 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale. This isn’t just any hole; it’s a coliseum where golf meets gladiatorial combat. Surrounded by grandstands that can hold up to 20,000 rowdy fans, the 16th hole offers an electric atmosphere that’s more Mardi Gras than Masters. A well-placed shot earns raucous cheers, while a misstep is met with good-natured jeers.
This hole has become synonymous with the tournament’s party-like atmosphere. Fans dress in outrageous costumes, chant player names, and create an energy unlike any other in professional golf. Tiger Woods’ ace in 1997 sent the crowd into a frenzy, with beer cups flying in the air in celebration—a moment now immortalized in golf history.
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The Pro-Am: Where Celebrities and Golf Collide
Before the main event kicks off, the Annexus Pro-Am provides fans with a unique opportunity to see their favorite celebrities, athletes, and business moguls tee it up alongside PGA TOUR pros. The Wednesday Pro-Am has featured a who’s who of Hollywood stars, sports legends, and corporate titans.
Big names like Michael Phelps, Larry Fitzgerald, Aaron Rodgers, J.J. Watt, and Charles Barkley have all taken part, creating unforgettable moments; some impressive, some hilariously awful (we’re looking at you, Barkley).
The Pro-Am adds to the WM Phoenix Open’s reputation as a must-attend event, blending high-level golf with entertainment and unpredictability.
A Change of Scenery
The tournament has seen its share of real estate changes, moving from Phoenix Country Club to Arizona Country Club before settling at TPC Scottsdale in 1987. This year marks the 38th consecutive year at this venue, making it one of the longest-running host sites in PGA TOUR history.
How Waste Management Got Involved
In 2010, Waste Management became the tournament’s title sponsor, bringing a new focus: sustainability. Under Waste Management’s leadership, the tournament has set the gold standard for eco-friendly sporting events.
The WM Phoenix Open has won the PGA TOUR’s “Best Title Sponsor Integration Award” for diverting 100% of tournament waste from landfills. Achieving "Zero Waste" means that not a single cup, can, sign, or container from the event ends up in a landfill.
Through composting, recycling, and repurposing materials, the tournament proves that major sporting events can be both massive and sustainable. The initiative has set the bar for other PGA TOUR events, showing that eco-consciousness and entertainment can go hand in hand.
Beyond the Fairways: A Commitment to Community
While the tournament is known for its festive atmosphere, its impact extends far beyond the greens. The Thunderbirds' charitable efforts have made a difference in thousands of lives across Arizona.
One of their most heartfelt initiatives is their support of Special Olympics Arizona. Seeing Special Olympics athletes compete with joy and determination is a powerful reminder of what sports—and the WM Phoenix Open—are all about.
A Legacy of Excellence
From its humble beginnings to its current status as a premier stop on the PGA TOUR, the WM Phoenix Open has continually evolved, blending tradition with innovation. Whether you’re drawn by the world-class golf, the electric atmosphere of the 16th hole, or the tournament’s charitable endeavors, there’s no denying that the WM Phoenix Open offers something for everyone.
It’s a testament to what can be achieved when passion, community, and a love for the game come together. And as long as The Thunderbirds are steering the ship, there’s no doubt that the Greatest Show on Grass will continue to thrive for decades to come.
Senior Vice President at Velocity Retail Group
3 周Well written article Victor! I did not know that in the early beginnings, the tournament almost ended. It is a great fundraiser for our community and the Thunderbirds make that happen. Well done!