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Tournament Golf Inc. is now Tournament Golf Foundation (TGF), a non-profit organization. The group is the managing organizer and is responsible for the Safeway Classic in Portland, and the Safeway International in Phoenix. The purse at the 2007 Safeway International was $1.5 million, and $1.7 million at the 2007 Safeway Classic. While many of the faces have changed since the early years, the contributions of TGF have steadily etched an impressive chapter in the history of the LPGA. TGF is comprised of 41 Portland area volunteer business leaders and their spouses, bringing LPGA golf to Portland for 36 years. It is a one of a kind organization in the US. "We do it all," says Tom Maletis, TGF President. "TGF members head more than 40 committees that work throughout the year overseeing more than 1,000 volunteers. Course set-up, marshals, media, the pro-am, parking , concessions and even garbage detail are a few of the committees. Additionally the men and women of TGF work throughout the year to sign up sponsors in support of the events." In addition to showcasing the best in ladies professional golf, TGF is committed to benefiting local charities in both Portland and Phoenix, through the Safeway Foundation. "We do it for the love of the game and more importantly for the charities we benefit," says Maletis. Tournament Golf Foundation |
In 1972, Portland, Oregon businessman Elon Ellis brought 20 of his friends together for a meeting. Two hours later, he had 27 willing participants and the LPGA had found another home on its tour. Tournament Golf Inc. was formed and the Portland Classic was born. The $25,000 purse put the LPGA Tour over the $1 million mark in total prize money for the year. Today total prize money is over $44 million.
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