RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup tournament returns to Phoenix March 14–18

JW Marriott Desert Ridge – Wildfire Golf Club plays host for second consecutive year

JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort
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The RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup marks its return of the LPGA to Phoenix when it tees off at JW Marriott Desert Ridge’s Wildfire Golf Club – home to both Faldo and Palmer championship courses – March 14.

Professional female golfers from across the country will compete for a purse of $1.5 million as well as a commitment of $500,000 to the LPGA-USGA Girls Golf Program. The tournament will expand to a four-day, 72-hole format.

The Founders Cup will feature a special tribute to LPGA pioneers who had a major role in creating one of the most successful women’s sports organizations in history. The event will honor LPGA members Peggy Kirk Bell, Betsy Rawls, Barbara Romack and Mickey Wright for their pioneering and trailblazing spirit, as well as their exemplary participation in the development and advancement of the LPGA.

The LPGA selected JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa because of its two high caliber golf courses and ability for combining the two as well as the benefit of the event being held at the luxurious resort rich in amenities.

Wildfire Golf Club, a multi-award winning club including “Top 75 Golf Resorts in North America” by Condé Nast, “Best Courses You Can Play” by Golfweek, “Best Resort Course in the Southwest” by Travel & Leisure Golf and certification by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program features two picturesque 18-hole courses designed by two of golf’s greatest legends – Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo.

The RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup will feature a field of 132 players with a Pro-Am on Wednesday, March 14, the first round of play on Thursday, March 15 and final round played on Sunday, March 18. It will be nationally televised on The Golf Channel.

“We are very proud to again sponsor a superb event that showcases exceptional athletic competition, recognizes the contributions of pioneering women and supports opportunities for girls to become involved in all of the positive attributes surrounding the game,” said RR Donnelley President and CEO Thomas J. Quinlan III. “The Founders Cup reflects a deep respect for heritage and a desire to embrace innovation. These are values that we share as we look forward to an exciting RR Donnelley Founders Cup event.”

The relaxed atmosphere of the LPGA provides a great outing for families and avid golfers alike. Tickets can be purchased online at www.LPGAFounders.com or by calling 1.888.LPGATIX. They are also Available at all Vans Golf Shops and PGA TOUR Superstores. Golf fans may purchase Good Any Day or Weekly Tickets for the event.

AAA Four Diamond JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is set on 316 acres in the Sonoran desert featuring sweeping views of the crimson-hued McDowell Mountains and wandering waterways that weave through the breathtaking lush oasis. Fiery Arizona sunsets and the picturesque, cactus-studded desert add to the resort’s serene setting.

Located where Phoenix meets Scottsdale, JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is just 20 minutes north of Sky Harbor International Airport, with easy access to Loop 101 freeway. For more information about JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa located at 5350 E. Marriott Drive in Phoenix, call 480.293.5000 or 800.835.6206. Visit www.jwdesertridgeresort.com.