Kirby classic marks 40-year tradition
EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) - What began as a small local golf gathering four decades ago has grown into one of the Imperial Valley's most enduring Thanksgiving traditions.
The 40th Annual Jack Kirby Classic Turkey Shoot teed off Thursday morning at Desert Trails Golf Course, bringing families, students, and supporters together for a holiday event that continues to benefit young athletes across the region.
Held each year on Thanksgiving Day, the tournament serves as a major fundraiser for the Southwest and Central High School golf programs all while honoring the legacy of Jack Kirby, a longtime supporter of youth sports who helped build the foundation of golf in the Imperial Valley.
For many student-athletes, the event is not only about competition but about celebrating the community that shows up for them year after year.
"I know it's pretty fun out here for Thanksgiving," said Julian Barboso, a senior at Southwest High School. "You can go home and hang with the family, but it's a good day to start with golf and hang out with friends."
This year's turnout was one of the strongest in recent years, according to coaches and organizers. With dozens of teams participating in the nine-hole scramble, the impact the event has on the boys and girls programs is undeniable.
"We raise money for our seasons, split evenly for boys and girls golf programs," said Southwest Head Coach Ajay Escalera. "Supporters like Kirby get all of our community members together here. It's just a great cause for the kids that are walking right behind us. Without him, this thing wouldn't happen."
Tournament Director Don Gorham says that while it’s an important fundraiser, the heart of the tradition has always been about bringing people together.
"It isn't all about the money," Gorham said. "It's about having a nice event for people to come out and enjoy three or four hours of golf."
For the younger golfers, the tournament provides a chance to grow their skills, build relationships, and take part in the valley’s golf culture.
"I've played golf for like two years," said Jess Serrano, a sophomore. "I'm actually the only person that plays in my family. It's just really fun to have friends to go out and play golf with. It's really fun."
As the sport continues to gain momentum locally, players say seeing the course packed on Thanksgiving morning reinforces how far the programs have come.
"It's especially important because golf is such a growing sport, especially here in the Valley," said Ayden Johnson, a senior at Southwest. "To see everyone come out and support both programs...it's really nice."
Participation has grown since the pandemic, and students say they can feel the difference.
"I'm really happy we had a lot more people this year compared to my freshman year,” said Julianna Gonzalez, a junior golfer. "I’m happy that a lot of people came and supported not only Southwest but Central as well."
For longtime coaches, the tradition stretches far beyond this year’s turnout.
"I've been coaching for 10 years now, and this goes back before my time," said Central Head Coach Travis Fusi. "This is the Jack Kirby tournament, so it goes back years. But since I've been here, it's been great times."
As players finished their rounds and headed home for Thanksgiving meals, organizers said the strength of the community ensures the Jack Kirby Classic will continue for many years to come.
With four decades behind it and a legacy built on giving back the Turkey Shoot remains a beloved tradition in the Imperial Valley, keeping Jack Kirby's impact alive with every swing.
