The Monterey Open

October 9-11, 2023

 

History

The Monterey Open has a rich and storied history dating back to 1926, when it was won by “Light Horse” Harry Cooper in an
event that included most of the top golfers in the nation, including the reigning U.S. Amateur Champion George Von Elm,
and 1927 Ryder Cup team members “Wild” Bill Mehlhorn, Joe Turnesa, Johnny Golden, Al Watrous, Johnny Farrell, Leo Diegel
and Al Espinosa.

The tournament missed a few years during the Great Depression, and again during WWII, but otherwise remained a popular
annual event on the Del Monte Golf Course calendar. Following the WWII death of popular Monterey golfer Bud Brownell, the
Bud Brownell Memorial Trophy was created by Jo Mora for engraving the names of future winners.

 

In 2022, Kevin Velo of Danville, California won the Monterey Open with a three-day total of 195 (-21 under par). His impressive
final round score of 64 provided a one stroke margin of victory over Tim Widing. With his victory, Velo earned a spot in the
2022 TaylorMade Pebble Beach Invitational at Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, and The Links at Spanish Bay.

 

 

Payout

 

Total Estimated Purse of $32,500*

Top Professional receives entry
into the TaylorMade Pebble Beach
Invitational on November 16-19, 2023
 

*Based on a field of 126 players

 

Recent Champions

 

Year           Player                      Score

 

2022      Kevin Velo                     195

2021      Mark Hensby                 199

2019      John Greco                    198

2018      Matt Pridey                    198

2017      Eddie Olson                   203

2016      Johnny Ruiz                    202

2015      Matt Picanso                 201

2014      Brandon Harkins           197

2013      Michael McCabe           198

2012      Anthony Verna                201

2011      Brandon Harkins            200