Must-See Sporting Events in Greater Palm Springs: 2017 Highlights
With breathtaking mountain backdrops and ideal peak-season weather, Greater Palm Springs hosts world-class athletes and some of America's most prestigious tournaments each year. From tennis courts to golf courses, here are five essential sporting events to experience in 2017.
CareerBuilder Challenge
The CareerBuilder Challenge, still fondly remembered as the Bob Hope Classic by many fans, returns to La Quinta for its 58th edition from January 18-22, 2017, bringing the PGA TOUR to the desert.
In 2016, the tournament introduced a new course rotation featuring PGA WEST's Stadium Course and Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course, while the historic La Quinta Country Club remains in play. This change opened the event to public participation, boosting excitement. Everyday golfers can now tackle the Stadium Course's iconic 17th hole, where Jason Dufner claimed victory, or navigate the challenging San Andreas Fault bunkers that challenged Phil Mickelson on the 16th.
With Phil Mickelson appointed as Official Tournament Ambassador, expect elevated star power and an enhanced fan experience.
For details on the pro-am, courses, tickets, and events, visit our CareerBuilder Challenge page.
BNP Paribas Open
The Indian Wells Tennis Garden, drawing nearly half a million fans yearly, earns its nickname as tennis's "Fifth Grand Slam" with its world-class venue and competition during the BNP Paribas Open.
Scheduled for March 6-19, 2017, the tournament features five-time champion Novak Djokovic chasing a fourth straight men's title, while 2016 women's winner Victoria Azarenka aims for her third BNP Paribas crown.
Stadium 2 continues as a culinary hotspot with returning pop-up restaurants like Nobu, Piero's Pizza Vino, and Chop House.
For ticketing, draws, and on-site dining info, check the BNP Paribas Open page.
Empire Polo Club
Beyond Coachella and Stagecoach, the Empire Polo Club in Indio shines as polo's premier venue.
The season kicks off with Opening Day on January 1, 2017, and runs through April 2, featuring relaxed Sunday matches at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. Enjoy free general admission ($20 parking) or the expanded VIP area ($25 per person, parking included). Friday night games under the lights are set for January 20 (5:30 p.m.), February 17 (5:30 p.m.), and March 17 (6:30 p.m.). Note: No play on January 15 or March 5.
For rules, dress code, tickets, and full schedule, visit the Empire Polo Club page.
ANA Inspiration
Golf's first major of the season, the ANA Inspiration, returns to Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage from March 27-April 2, 2017, showcasing the world's top women golfers.
Second only to The Masters in longevity at a single venue, the event (once known as the Dinah Shore) saw teen prodigy Lydia Ko, then world No. 1, triumph in 2016 with the traditional leap into Poppie's Pond by the 18th green. In 2017, Ko faces stiff competition to become the first back-to-back winner since Annika Sorenstam in 2001-2002.
Visit the ANA Inspiration page for venue details, tickets, and a full week of on- and off-course events.
Planning a sports getaway? Discover the perfect Greater Palm Springs hotels here.
