The Epson Tour Championship taking place at the Indian Wells Golf Resort in Palm Desert raises the question of whether this could signal the return of the LPGA to the Coachella Valley. The LPGA left the desert after the 2022 Chevron Championship, ending a 51-year presence at Mission Hills Country Club. City officials in Indian Wells are eager to see the LPGA return and are hopeful that hosting the Epson Tour Championship could be the first step in that direction.
While the possibility of the LPGA returning to the desert is exciting, it is not a guaranteed outcome. Many cities across the country are interested in hosting professional golf events, but there are numerous factors that need to align for a tour to select a particular location. In the case of Indian Wells, having a great date on the LPGA schedule and a suitable golf course are key considerations.
The Players Course at Indian Wells Golf Resort will host the Epson Tour Championship this year, with the potential for the Celebrity Course to host the event in 2025. Renovations are planned for the Players Course to better accommodate a high-profile tournament. The financial aspect is also crucial, as a sponsor is needed to cover the costs of hosting a tournament, including course setup, television production, and prize money.
City officials in Indian Wells have taken on the responsibility of advocating for an LPGA event in their community, demonstrating their commitment to bringing professional golf back to the area. The presence of strong non-profits and charities in the Coachella Valley ensures that finding support for a new tournament will not be difficult. However, the LPGA must still address questions related to course suitability and timing.
One significant consideration for the LPGA is whether they truly want to return to the desert after leaving the Coachella Valley. The iconic history of the Chevron Championship, known as The Dinah, looms large, making it challenging for a new event to establish its own identity. Finding ways to differentiate and establish importance for a potential new tournament will be crucial for its success in the region.
An October date for an LPGA event in the desert, coinciding with the CME Championship, could be a compelling selling point for attracting players and fans. Ultimately, the decision on whether to bring the LPGA back to the Coachella Valley will depend on various factors, including course readiness, financial backing, and the tour’s overall interest in returning to the region. Despite the challenges, the possibility of the LPGA making a comeback in Palm Desert is an exciting prospect for golf fans in the area.
