Joe Montana Helps Kick Off US Open Trophy Tour

Photo Credit: Copyright USGA/John Mummert

While golf aficionados have all eyes on this weekend’s Masters tournament in Augusta, local lovers of the sport were treated to an exclusive preview of the US Open. Earlier this week, the United States Golf Association (USGA) hosted a special event at the Hotel Vitale in anticipation of the 119th championship. The 2019 US Open takes place June 13-16 at Pebble Beach Golf Links. It’s a special year for the tournament as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of Pebble Beach.

Photo Credit: Copyright USGA/John Mummert

At the Hotel Vitale, football legend Joe Montana was named the honorary ambassador of the US Open and helped kick off the USGA’s official Trophy Tour. “It’s an honor for me to be an ambassador for the U.S. Open. You know you always talk about those things you always wish you could do better? One, I wish I could sing, which I can’t. And I wish I was better at golf,” Montana joked. “I think there’s no better host city than San Francisco. I’ve been living here now, since 1979, when I first was drafted here, and we’ve never left. I’m proud to be a part of this, and I’m looking forward to helping host this event here in the Bay Area, and we’ll see you soon, and see you in Pebble Beach.”

Photo Credit: Copyright USGA/John Mummert

After his speech, Montana and the eight-and-a-half pound silver trophy jumped on a cable car and partook in a tour of the city. As it made its way through San Francisco, fans at Crissy Field, Pier 39, and  Oracle Park were allowed to snap pics with the trophy. Over the next two months, the cup will make the rounds of the community appearing at such events like Bay to Breakers and Union Street Fair before it takes the place of honor in June at Pebble Beach.

Tickets for the US Open are available now.