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Chevron Championship Moves to Houston, Marking LPGA, PGA Tour Alliance

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. s-to-houston-marking-lpga-pga-tour-alliance.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 1:46 GMT by WTOP News
      Locales: Texas, UNITED STATES

HOUSTON, TX - February 4th, 2026 - In a landmark decision signaling a shift in the landscape of professional golf, the Chevron Championship, traditionally the first major of the LPGA Tour season, will relocate from its historic home in Rancho Mirage, California, to The Club at Blackhorse in Houston, Texas, starting this year. This move isn't just a change of scenery; it represents a strategic alliance between the LPGA and PGA Tour, aimed at bolstering the tournament's profile, increasing attendance, and further integrating women's golf into the mainstream sporting consciousness.

For decades, the Chevron Championship (formerly known under various sponsorships like Dinah Shore Tournament of Champions) has been synonymous with the stunning backdrop of Rancho Mirage and the tradition of the Dinah Shore course. The iconic image of the winner leaping into Poppie's Pond has become a beloved symbol of LPGA victory. While the LPGA and Chevron acknowledge the deep-rooted history and gratitude towards the Rancho Mirage community, they maintain that the move to Houston is a necessary step for the tournament's long-term growth and sustainability.

The decision to co-locate the Chevron Championship with the PGA Tour's Houston Open at The Club at Blackhorse offers a multitude of benefits. Firstly, it leverages the existing infrastructure already in place for a major tournament. This significantly reduces logistical hurdles and costs associated with setting up a major championship, allowing for more investment in enhancing the fan experience and prize purse. The Club at Blackhorse is already equipped to handle the demands of a large-scale golf event, including parking, transportation, hospitality, and media facilities.

Secondly, the shared venue creates a unique cross-promotional opportunity for both tours. The Houston Open is a well-established event with a loyal fan base, and by aligning the Chevron Championship alongside it, the LPGA hopes to tap into that audience and introduce them to the stars of women's golf. Conversely, PGA Tour fans will have the opportunity to witness the skill and athleticism of LPGA players, fostering greater appreciation and support for the women's game. This synergistic approach aims to break down traditional barriers and promote inclusivity within golf.

LPGA Commissioner Martha Hilbert emphasized the significance of the move, stating, "This is a monumental moment for the LPGA and our partnership with the PGA Tour. Bringing the Chevron Championship to Houston, alongside the Houston Open, presents an unparalleled opportunity to showcase the incredible talent of our athletes and connect with a broader audience. Rancho Mirage has been a wonderful host for many years, and we are incredibly grateful for their support. This move, however, is a strategic step towards continued growth and innovation."

The move to Houston reflects a broader trend within professional sports - the pursuit of increased visibility and revenue. Women's sports, in particular, have seen significant growth in recent years, driven by increased media coverage and fan engagement. This relocation is seen as a proactive measure to capitalize on this momentum and solidify the LPGA's position as a leading force in the world of golf. Experts predict increased sponsorship opportunities and media rights deals as the Chevron Championship gains greater exposure in a major metropolitan market like Houston.

However, the decision hasn't been without its critics. Some purists lament the loss of the tournament's California tradition and the unique atmosphere of Rancho Mirage. Concerns have also been raised about potential overcrowding and logistical challenges with two major tournaments sharing the same venue. The LPGA and PGA Tour have assured fans that they are working closely to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all attendees, with staggered scheduling and separate designated areas for each tournament.

Looking ahead, the future of the Chevron Championship in Houston appears bright. The tournament organizers are planning a range of fan-focused initiatives, including enhanced hospitality packages, interactive fan zones, and opportunities to meet and greet LPGA players. They aim to create a festival-like atmosphere that will attract a diverse audience and celebrate the best of women's golf. This move signifies not just a change of location, but a bold step towards a more inclusive and thriving future for the LPGA and the sport of golf as a whole.