40 Facts About Farmers Insurance Open

Farmers Insurance Open: A Rich History

The Farmers Insurance Open is a cornerstone event in the world of golf. Its history stretches back over seven decades, filled with memorable moments and legendary players.

1. The tournament was originally known as the San Diego Open when it first began in 1952.
2. It has undergone several name changes due to sponsorship reasons, finally becoming the Farmers Insurance Open in 2010.
3. The event is held annually at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, San Diego, California.
4. This course is also home to the 2008 and 2021 U.S. Open.
5. The tournament is played over two courses, the North and South courses of Torrey Pines.
6. Each course features 36 holes, totaling 72 holes in stroke play format.

A Timeline of Locations and Sponsors

The Farmers Insurance Open has moved around quite a bit before finding its permanent home at Torrey Pines. Here’s a look at its journey.

7. The inaugural event was held at Chula Vista's San Diego Country Club in 1952.
8. The second edition in 1953 was also held at the same venue.
9. In 1955, the event moved to Mission Valley Country Club in San Diego.
10. By 1956, it shifted to Singing Hills Country Club in El Cajon.
11. From 1957 to 1963, the tournament was held in Mission Valley.
12. In 1962, Mission Valley became Stardust Country Club, now known as Riverwalk Golf Club.
13. One edition in 1964 was held at Rancho Bernardo Country Club, now Rancho Bernardo Inn, in San Diego.
14. It returned to Stardust for three years starting in 1967.

Title Sponsors Over the Years

Sponsorship has played a significant role in the evolution of the Farmers Insurance Open. Here’s a look at its title sponsors.

15. Isuzu was the first title sponsor from 1981 to 1983.
16. Wickes took over as the second title sponsor from 1984 to 1985.
17. Shearson Lehman Brothers became the third title sponsor in 1986.
18. Buick was the fourth title sponsor starting in 1992.
19. Farmers Insurance became the current title sponsor in 2010.

Prize Money and Notable Winners

The Farmers Insurance Open offers substantial prize money and has seen some of the greatest golfers in history claim victory.

20. The 2025 event has a purse of $9.3 million.
21. The winner's share is $1.67 million.
22. Past winners include golfing icons like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tiger Woods.
23. Recent winners include Bubba Watson, Brandt Snedeker, Scott Stallings, Jason Day, Jon Rahm, Justin Rose, Marc Leishman, Patrick Reed, and Luke List.

Charity and Community Involvement

The Farmers Insurance Open is not just about golf; it’s also about giving back to the community.

24. The tournament generates millions of dollars annually for charity.
25. It supports at-risk and underserved youth and low-income military families in San Diego.
26. Farmers Insurance has been committed to increasing diversity in golf participation and the industry.
27. In 2020, it hosted an Advocates Pro Golf Association (APGA) Tour event during tournament week, making it the first PGA TOUR tournament to do so.
28. An annual Youth Clinic is hosted in conjunction with the event to grow the game of golf among young participants.

Unique Features and Experiences

From its trophy design to the spectator experience, the Farmers Insurance Open offers unique features that set it apart.

29. The trophy was designed by Malcolm DeMille to pay homage to the local terrain at Torrey Pines Golf Course.
30. It features a realistic bronze cast and patina sculpture of an endangered Torrey Pine sitting on towering cliffs above the Pacific coastline.
31. Gate times vary based on starting tee times, typically opening closer to 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, and closer to 9:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
32. Ticket sales begin in the fall, offering a variety of daily and weekly access options, from grounds passes to more lavish packages including food, beverages, and parking.

Broadcasting and Digital Streaming

The Farmers Insurance Open ensures that fans can follow the action from anywhere, thanks to extensive broadcasting and digital streaming options.

33. The Golf Channel broadcasts the event on Wednesday and Thursday from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. PST.
34. CBS broadcasts the event on Friday from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST.
35. Viewers can watch the tournament online through various digital platforms such as GolfChannel.com, CBSSports.com, and PGATOUR.com.

Farmers Insurance’s Commitment to Diversity and Innovation

Farmers Insurance has a long history of innovation and community service, which is reflected in its involvement with the Farmers Insurance Open.

36. Founded in 1928 by John C. Tyler and Thomas E. Leavey, Farmers Insurance has a rich history of innovation and community service.
37. Despite starting during the Great Depression, Farmers Insurance managed to pay customers’ claims in cash instead of IOUs, setting it apart from other companies.
38. Over the years, Farmers Insurance has introduced several innovative practices such as comprehensive auto coverage, non-smoker discounts, and alternative-fuel vehicle discounts.
39. The company is known for its quick response to natural disasters, often being the first Mobile Catastrophe fleet on the ground to serve affected communities.
40. Farmers Insurance operates the University of Farmers, voted No. 1 corporate training center in the country by Training magazine, providing top-notch insurance education to its agents and employees.

The Farmers Insurance Open: A Golfing Gem

The Farmers Insurance Open isn't just another golf tournament. Its rich history, dating back to 1952, and its stunning location at Torrey Pines Golf Course make it a standout event on the PGA TOUR. With a purse of $9.3 million and a winner's share of $1.67 million, it attracts top talent like Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer. Beyond the greens, the tournament supports numerous charities, focusing on at-risk youth and low-income military families. Farmers Insurance also champions diversity in golf, hosting the APGA Tour during tournament week. From its early days at Chula Vista's San Diego Country Club to its current prestigious status, the Farmers Insurance Open has grown into a beloved event. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or a casual fan, this tournament offers something special for everyone.