Sports

The tournament is the third-oldest tournament on the PGA tour and it ranked third in charitable contributions last year. Any money raised is split between several children’s charities.

Since Valero Energy Corp. became the title sponsor in 2002, the tournament and the Valero Texas Open Benefit for Children Golf Classic have combined to raise of $14 million for those charities, $5.35 million in 2005 alone.

This year’s goal is to raise $6 million in giving, according to Golf San Antonio.
But the week of the Texas Open offers more than just golf. Sept. 18 through 20 has private play for paid participants, but the next four days, the course is open to the public and offers loads of family fun.
According to Cathryn Le Vrier, marketing and communications director for Golf San Antonio, from Thursday, Sept. 21, through Sunday, Sept. 24, the Westin La Cantera Resort in San Antonio promises some great action on the greens as well as a variety of family fun off of the course.

On Saturday, Sept. 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., be sure to bring the family to the Aquafina Family Fiesta event at the La Cantera driving range. Activities include a free picnic lunch for kids from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., an exhibition by a trick-shot artist, face painting, inflatables, caricatures, spin art, games, goodie bags and a “Charity Chip ‘N Putt” contest to raise money for local charities.

While you are there, check out the Valero PGA Tour Pavilion presented by SoBe. It will be open Thursday through Sunday for a variety of interactive games and activities.

You can step into the prestigious role of sports announcer in the broadcasting booth, try your hand at the simulated long drive contest and closest to the pin simulator, play video games, and more!

Golf San Antonio also boasts a virtual Valero Corner Store, filled with working cash registers and check-out counter, Icee machines to cool you off from the hot sun and a coffee bar if you need a little pep in your step! The store will also feature games, product samplings, giveaways and appearances by costumed characters.
“The Valero Texas Open is a great San Antonio sports tradition,” sad Tony Piazzi, president and CEO of Golf San Antonio. “And, with great activities like the Aquafina Family Fiesta and the PGA Tour Pavilion, it’s also a fun event for the entire family.”

On Sunday, Sept. 24, at 8 a.m. and before the final round of the Valero Texas Open, spectators are invited to attend a non-denominational religious service on the ninth green, according to Golf San Antonio. The service will be led by Louis Zbinden, retired senior pastor from First Presbyterian Church.

Also on Sunday, after the last putt, the champion for the 2006 Valero Texas Open will be named and presented with a trophy at closing ceremonies. Last year, Robert Gamez was crowned the 2005 champion in his third PGA tour victory.

As an added bonus, a reduced gate fee will be offered Saturday to parents who bring their children to the tournament before 10:30 a.m. Children under 17 are free, and parents will pay only $10, instead of the usual $20 gate fee.

Tickets can be purchased through schools participating in “Chip In for Schools” program, at Valero or Diamond Shamrock Corner Stores or online by visiting www.golfsanantonio.org. Information on the tournament, schools participating in the “Chip in for Schools” program, location, schedules and contact information all can be found at the Web site as well.