As the calendar marched relentlessly toward 2024 and the 24th Legacy September 28th & 30th, it gives the opportunity to reflect on the 2023 Legacy Invitational. The 23rd celebration of The Legacy lived up to the reputation of its ancestors, bringing together The Legacy Family to renew life-long relationships, grateful for the setting of the Rancho Resort and Spa for the Gala dinner, and La Jolla Country Club for the Golf Invitational. Recognizing the National Conflict Resolution Center, The Legacy’s support helped launch the THRIVE program to continue their work with San Diego youth.
The anticipation of enjoying the Gala at Casa Velencia took a nervous turn when a late, unseasonable, rain suddenly appeared in the evening’s forecast. The resourceful team at Rancho Valencia snapped to attention, pivoting on a dime to have a tasteful, elegant, tent put in place to protect the patrons. Thankfully, the forecast never materialized, and the inspiring program could be embraced by everyone.
Annual beneficiaries, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and Pro Kids also shared the marquee. The evening was marked by inspiring, personal stories of those impacted by The Legacy, and the enlightening addresses by NCRC’s Steven Dinkin and Anwar Shariff emphasizing the significant impact the support of The Legacy will have on the future success of the THRIVE program.
The evening closed with Rolf’s revealing of the recipient of the prestigious Jim Sochor Award. Dale Yahnke was recognized for his relentless, generous, support for organizations in San Diego for many, many years, along with the personal impact he has had with so many friends and colleagues. Like all previous honorees, Dale was surprised and humbled by his selection, though very well deserved.
Still feeling the inspiration of the Gala dinner, players arrived at La Jolla Country Club for a spectacular day of golf. The welcoming hospitality of the La Jolla Country Club staff and membership was felt by everyone. The golf course was in pristine condition, the views to the expanse of the Pacific Ocean on a sparkling San Diego day left all with a sense of gratefulness. Grateful for being fortunate to be able to make an important impact on the San Diego community in support of a long list of worthy beneficiaries for more than two decades. All can take immense pride in having had their part in bringing the total Legacy contributions to more than $9 million since the inaugural Legacy.
The final act of the 2023 Legacy was a delightful dinner following the golf tournament, highlighted by the traditional Fireside Chat. This year’s guest was San Diego State University’s Head Basketball coach, Brian Dutcher. A revealing insight into the day to day, game by game, reflection on their run to the NCAA March Madness, National Championship game against the University of Connecticut made for a fun and a fascinating conversation.
