Par excellence
Iconic tournament’s biggest winners are the people and charities of Connecticut, even in pandemic-stricken 2020
D“If we do our jobs well with the tournament, and if it produces a successful tournament, the end result is what we have here, talking about the impact to our community. So this is, by far, what we’re most proud of and what we’re most excited about.” — Nathan Grube, Travelers tournament director
ustin Johnson tapped in for par, and the 21st PGA Tour victory of his career, on the evening of June 28th at TPC River Highlands. There we had it, through the challenges of a pandemic the sports world was just beginning to navigate, a high-profile champion finishing off a tournament held against the odds and without fans on site.
It was quite an achievement, all circumstances considered. It was, in fact, one of the best in the event’s 69-year history even if, and maybe because, it played out with smatterings of applause replacing ground-shaking roars.
Johnson wasn’t the only winner, though. The best player in Cromwell never is.
Golf wasn’t the only thing COVID-19 failed to rob from the people of Connecticut.
And that final shot, Johnson receiving the blue champion’s blazer, the presentation of the trophy … they weren’t even the best moments.
Those always follow. Still, again, even in 2020.
The Travelers Championship this year generated $1.6 million for 115 local charities and the moments to truly cherish are when checks are cashed and people’s lives are enriched. Life in Connecticut is better for so many because of the tournament, the week-long focal point for an engine that runs yearround, year after year, with or without fans or a virus’ disruption.
“A lot of times people say ‘What’s the greatest part of your job, Sunday holding the trophy and saying thank you to the champion and congratulations?’” tournament direc