Waste Management Phoenix Open hosts raise $7 million for charity

PHOENIX — The Thunderbirds, hosts of the 2014 Waste Phoenix Open, will distribute over $7 million to local charities, Thunderbirds Big Chief Tom King announced Oct. 27.

The money comes from proceeds raised from the 2014 tournament. It marks the first time since 2008 that the Thunderbirds have raised more than $7 million from the tournament and the third highest charitable donation in a single year in tournament history, according to the Thunderbirds.

Since 2003 when the tournament first brought on a title sponsor, The Thunderbirds and the Open have raised more than $67.4 million for charities. Since the Phoenix Open began in 1932, more than $93.3 million has been raised for charities in Arizona, the Thunderbirds said.

“This tournament is showing the world how a sporting event really can make a difference,” said David Steiner, Waste Management president and CEO. “Whether it’s setting a new standard for sustainability or sending more than $7 million to Arizona charities, it’s about much more than great golf.”