Steve Stricker won the 2021 Chubb Classic by one stroke the last time he played at the Chubb.
After a mysterious illness that caused inflammation of his heart, the 55-year old missed the chance to defend his title at last year’s tournament. He was forced to stop playing for six months and only play in a handful of PGA Tour Champions events.
Stricker won four, including one senior major. Stricker, a former Naples resident, was also a Quail West Golf and Country Club member. He won the season-opening Mitsubishi Electric Championship in Hawaii at Hualalai by six strokes. This included a course record of 60 at 12-under on the second day.
Bernhard Langer, the ageless, pursued Hale Irwin’s record 45 Champions Tour victories. This was what grabbed the most attention at the Chubb Classic. He’s a four time champion, the most in the event’s history. Stricker’s victory in Hawaii was his fourth in five Champions events, and third consecutively, dating back to last season. This is an impressive streak that shows he is fully recovered from his health problems.
After his Tiburon pro-am round, Stricker stated that it brought a smile to his face because he knew he played well. “I just want to keep it rolling and keep that going, and try to win again and get in contention every time I come here to tee off. That’s kinda my goal every single time I come out there to tee up.”
Stricker lived in Naples part-time from 2021. He said that he enjoys coming back to Southwest Florida where he has had a lot of success with both the Chubb as well as the QBE Shootout. He also has the chance to see old friends and reunite with many of his former colleagues.
Stricker’s family event at the Chubb Classic this year is his wife Nicki, who is also his caddie. He will be accompanied by his daughters Bobbi (and Izzi) and Bobbi (his daughter). Mario Tiziani is Stricker’s brother in law and caddie. He was there for Nicki’s win at Hualalai.
Stricker stated that Izzi, our youngest, is actually caddying for Mario this weeks. “I’m very excited about the course and being there. It’s in great condition again.”
Stricker will be celebrating his 56th birthday next Wednesday. He plans to play a full Champions schedule, his first since he made his senior circuit debut in 2017. He entered the Chubb Classic having won 12 of the four Champions tournaments that he has participated in.
He said that even though Stricker couldn’t win his four Champions starts at Chubb Classic, it’s still a great feeling to be able to compete.
He said, “I don’t know if it’s going to win again or be able play.” “Look at what happened to you a year ago. We don’t know what the future holds. You have to be happy with the moment, the journey, and the effort of trying to play well.
