In April 2025, the Desert Classic took place at Papago Golf Course in Phoenix, Arizona. The event was a women’s-only partner tournament that included three rounds of tournament golf along with various other engagements and amenities. Tori Totlis, the organizer of the event, made sure that participants were treated to a unique experience filled with activities like private shopping nights, guided stretching sessions, instructional clinics, and nightly parties. The Desert Classic wasn’t just a golf tournament; it was an all-encompassing experience designed to bring women together for a fun and competitive event.
On a cool Monday morning, the participants of the Desert Classic arrived at the course dressed in “Western wear” for the day’s theme. With a DJ playing upbeat music in the background, Totlis led the group in a pre-round dance party to get everyone energized and excited for the day ahead. This energetic and light-hearted atmosphere set the tone for what was to come during the three-day event, showcasing the camaraderie and sense of community that the Desert Classic aimed to foster among the participants.
The idea of an all-female golf tournament like the Desert Classic was a novel concept that Totlis capitalized on. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences playing in invitational events and leveraging her social media presence, Totlis was able to bring together 400 women for a recreational golf event that sold out in minutes. The success of the Desert Classic was largely attributed to Totlis’ ability to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for women of all skill levels to come together and enjoy the game of golf.
Participants of the Desert Classic cited Totlis as a major reason for attending the event, praising her for her efforts in creating a fun and engaging atmosphere that made the tournament a memorable experience. The Desert Classic was more than just a golf tournament; it was a celebration of women in golf and a platform for fostering friendships and camaraderie among like-minded individuals. The success of the event prompted Totlis to add a second tournament week in subsequent years, which also sold out quickly due to the high demand from returning participants.
The Desert Classic attracted players from across the country and even from other countries, showcasing the growing popularity of women’s golf and the willingness of female golfers to invest in the sport they love. The atmosphere at the event was one of fellowship and competitiveness, with participants forming lasting friendships and looking forward to returning year after year. The sense of community and shared passion for golf among the participants made the Desert Classic a one-of-a-kind event that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
As the Desert Classic came to a close, participants gathered for a night of entertainment and celebration, complete with a mechanical bull, live music, and line dancing. Totlis and her team were already looking ahead to future events, with three tournaments and two retreats planned for the 2025 schedule. The success of the Desert Classic had opened up new opportunities for Totlis and her team, and they were eager to explore creative outlets and expand their offerings to continue bringing women together through the game of golf. The future looked bright for the Desert Classic and the community it had built, with participants already eagerly anticipating the next event and the opportunity to reconnect with friends and fellow golf enthusiasts.
