SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
RENO, Nev. – With a successful 12th annual tournament under its belt, the Reno-Tahoe Open is proud to head into 2011 with strong reviews from its official PGA TOUR analysis, several mentions on the PGA TOUR’s “Best Practices” site and national recognition at the annual PGA TOUR tournament meetings for its special event initiatives. Acting as momentum for the 13th annual event, which takes place Aug. 1-7, 2011, the Reno-Tahoe Open received accolades for programs including branding and collateral; operation services; and family-friendly and military-inspired activities, as well as its first-ever Women’s Day event featuring Annika Sorenstam and Patty Sheehan.
“We are so happy to earn high marks from the TOUR as well as seeing fan favorites and new events earn recognition,” said Reno-Tahoe Open Executive Director Jana Smoley. “Bringing these new elements on board, along with traditional events such as Fiesta Loco and the Wine Walk, has truly enhanced the tournament and we look forward to continuing to take steps forward in 2011.”
Each year, upon completion of the event, the tournament receives a comprehensive analysis with feedback on all aspects of production ranging from charity integration to ticketing to course signage. This year, thanks to the tournament’s new director, Jana Smoley, and a re-energized staff and board of directors, the Reno-Tahoe Open received high marks with significant improvements made from 2009. Earning the Reno-Tahoe Open praise was its improved “look” throughout the course, cross promotion including a children’s coloring contest with Scolari’s Food & Drug Company and enhanced social media efforts. In addition, the Reno-Tahoe Open also earned rave reviews for its military and charity initiatives implemented via its partnership with the Nevada Military Support Alliance (NMSA).
“The 2010 Reno-Tahoe Open marked the beginning of a new era in the business of running professional golf tournaments in northern Nevada,” said Stephanie McNeill, director of tournament business affairs for the PGA TOUR, in her analysis of the Reno-Tahoe Open. “The tournament began with a new date and followed with a new executive director, a revamped sales group and a re-energized staff, all of which paid significant dividends.”
In addition to a positive review, the Reno-Tahoe Open also placed second at the annual PGA TOUR tournament meetings in the special events category for its first ever Women’s Day presented by Barrick Gold of North America. Featuring LPGA hall-of-famers Annika Sorenstam and Patty Sheehan, a luncheon, fashion show and an outdoor shopping expo, Women’s Day earned the tournament a “Best Practices” mention, adding to other “Best Practices” including the tournament’s marketing development and execution; the 2010 “Patriot’s Luncheon” presented by Erlach Computer Consulting; execution of the KNPB Kidz Par-Tee Zone; course signage acknowledging volunteers, board members and sponsors; and tournament and hotel package deals. Other 2010 “Bests” include The First Tee of Northern Nevada’s involvement during tournament week; inclusion of the Girl Scouts of Sierra Nevada on the course; co-branded tee backs on site; and local course activation, a partnership program designed to increase awareness and participation at other golf courses throughout the region.
“We are very happy with the results from the 2010 tournament and I look forward with great expectation to the 2011 event,” added Smoley. “We made some great strides in 2010 despite trying circumstances, which makes me confident that we can continue our progress in 2011 thanks to the hard work of community leaders and volunteers, the commitment of our board of directors and support from the northern Nevada community.”
For more information on the 13th annual Reno-Tahoe Open at Montreux, including ticket sales, vacation packages, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.RenoTahoeOpen.com or contact the tournament office at 775-322-3900.
The 13th annual Reno-Tahoe Open at Montrêux, an official PGA TOUR event, takes place Aug. 1 – 7, 2011 at Montrêux Golf & Country Club in Reno, Nev. As the PGA TOUR’s only summer West Coast event, the tournament is a full-field stop during the PGA TOUR Regular Season and is part of the FedExCup series, a points competition for PGA TOUR professionals. The internationally-televised tournament brings in millions of dollars in coverage for the Reno-Tahoe region through its affiliation with The Golf Channel as it follows 132 PGA TOUR professionals competing for a share of the tournament’s $3 million purse. The Reno-Tahoe Open is operated and managed by the Reno-Tahoe Open Foundation, comprised of its members including Eldorado Hotel Reno, Montrêux Development Group and NV Energy.
