Umpqua Bank Challenge field finalized with some big names

The Umpqua Bank Challenge announced that PGA Tour professionals Robert Garrigus and Boo Weekley are joining the main field of the upcoming event, set for August 26-28 at The Reserve Vineyards & Golf Club in Aloha. But that’s not all. Rounding out the field for this year’s event are Lee Trevino, Oregon men’s golf coach Casey Martin and two-time world long driving champion Jamie Sadlowski.

Garrigus, a former resident of Gresham, Ore., turned professional in 1997, and joined the PGA Tour in 2006 after playing several seasons on the Nationwide Tour. Garrigus picked up his first Tour win at the 2010 Children’s Miracle Network Classic, earning him full exemption on the PGA Tour through 2012. So far this year Garrigus has had two second place finishes and earned more than $1.2 million in official money and, with an average of 309 yards, is currently the second longest in driving distance on Tour.

Weekley, who also turned professional in 1997, played the PGA Tour during the 2002 season, and then rejoined in 2007 after a four-year stint on the Nationwide Tour. A true fan-favorite, Weekley is known for his easy-going attitude and love of camouflage/outdoor apparel. He has earned more than $8 million in official career money and is a two-time winner of the Verizon Heritage (now the RBC Heritage).

“As much as Boo is loved for being the “every man’s” hero on Tour, he really does possess one of the best swings in golf,” said Jacobsen. “He’s long, accurate and has a great touch. His relaxed demeanor draws people to him, but deep down he is a real competitor.”

Garrigus and Weekley join Jacobsen, 2011 FedExCup champion Bill Haas, 36-year PGA Tour veteran Jay Haas, 2012 Waste Management Phoenix Open winner Kyle Stanley, 2011 co-champions Steve Elkington and Scott McCarron and Oregon-born PGA Tour star Ben Crane as members of the 2012 Umpqua Bank Challenge main field. The remaining players will be announced throughout the spring and summer.

Registration for the 2012 Umpqua Bank Challenge volunteer program opened March 1. The 2011 volunteer program sold out early, and several committees are already full for 2012. For the most up-to-date tournament information and news, including details on volunteering, ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.umpquabankchallenge.com or call (866) 503-2003.

Umpqua Bank Challenge
• When: August 26-28, 2012
• Where: The Reserve Vineyards and Golf Club near Portland
• Format: PGA Tour stars will be paired in two-player teams
• Players: Host Peter Jacobsen has invited Ben Crane, Bill Haas, Jay Haas, Kyle Stanley, Robert Garrigus, Boo Weekley, Steve Elkington, Scott McCarron, Lee Trevino, Casey Martin, Jamie Sadlowski,.
• Information: 866.503.2003.