The Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club and Rotary District 5340 proudly sponsored the 59th International Golfing Fellowship of Rotarians (IGFR), which took place in San Diego from September 22-27, 2024. Titled *California Dreamin’*, this event fostered global fellowship, goodwill, and peace through a shared love of golf. ECR members Bob and Carol Blum worked diligently over the past two years to organize this prestigious international event, with many club members actively involved in all aspects of the week-long festivities.
The event kicked off with an impressive Opening Ceremony on board the USS Midway, featuring a Flag Raising Ceremony, Cocktail Reception, Buffet Dinner, and meetings for players and partners. Throughout the week, participants competed at four of San Diego County’s premier golf courses: the renowned Torrey Pines, Encinitas Ranch, Lomas Santa Fe, and the scenic Coronado Golf Course.
For those not participating in the golf tournament, a vibrant partners program offered a variety of daily activities around San Diego County. Highlights included a trolley tour and visit to Old Town, a day at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, a Flagship Harbor Cruise tour and shopping at Seaport Village, as well as exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the Old Globe Theater and museums at Balboa Park.
The week concluded on Friday night with Cocktails, a Farewell Banquet, an Awards Ceremony, and the official Closing Ceremony, all hosted at the Del Mar Hilton.
This year’s IGFR was truly a global affair, bringing together Rotarians from 26 countries across six continents. From Asia, representatives hailed from Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Japan, and the Philippines. Africa was proudly represented by Rotarians from Ghana, Morocco, and Uganda. The Pacific saw a delegate from Australia, while Europe added an international flair with participants from Turkey, Estonia, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Germany, Switzerland, France, Spain, Italy, Denmark, Austria, and the United Kingdom. Rotarians from the United States, Canada, Mexico, Colombia, and the Cayman Islands rounded out the Americas, making the event a celebration of global unity.
The Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club was thrilled to have hosted this prestigious event, which showcased exceptional golf and promoted international fellowship and cultural exchange. It was a unique opportunity for Rotarians to build lasting relationships while enjoying all San Diego offers.