I think you’ve already heard the news that Los Angeles’ devastating wildfire has swept through the city. And as horrible and heartbreaking as it sounds, nobody thought anything golf-related would be harmed by that. But guess what? Everyone’s worst fears have come true and the fire, which began in the Pacific Palisades area, has already engulfed over 1,200 acres of land and damaged numerous buildings.

As the fire continues to spread, the golf community is coming together to offer support and prayers as Riviera Country Club, which is set to host the Genesis Invitational next month, is situated just a few miles away from the fire and is also on the fire’s way. The news has hit close to home for many in the golf community, including LPGA legend Michelle Wie West, who is a California resident. Wie West took to social media to express her concern, posting a video of the fire on her Instagram story with a heartbroken caption, “LA 💔💔💔💔💔💔💔”.

The video showed the massive flames engulfing the surrounding city and the smoke coming from the fire. Wie West’s post was just one of many from the golf community, and I mean, it really is time to show support and send prayers to those in need. Even Brooks Koepka’s wife, Jena Sims, took to her Instagram to express concerns over the same and wrote, “This is just beyond devastating.” This news is concerning for more reasons than one, as the Genesis Invitational is just weeks away, and it’s unclear how the tournament will be affected. Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, has declared a state of emergency and deployed over 1,400 firefighters to combat the building fire.

The situation really calls for a lot of help as thousands of people are forced to flee their homes and many more are at risk. Almost 50,000 people had left affected areas of California as of Wednesday morning, and over 300,000 energy customers have been left without power. It’s hard to even imagine what they all must be going through. But it’s not the first time it has happened, I mean not even a week ago, Kenya also lost one of its historic golf courses to a deadly fire.

Devastating fires hit golf clubs in Kenya

What happened in Kenya was straight out of every golf lover’s nightmare and I do not say that lightly. The Limuru Country Club which is a beloved institution established in 1945, was made to dust by flames that left nothing but ashes in their wake on January 4, 2025. Yeah, as I said not even a week ago. Over 500 workers are now stranded and their livelihoods are uncertain as the club’s iconic clubhouse was reduced to crumbs.

The estimated loss is a staggering Sh200 million, but the true cost goes far beyond mere numbers. The clubhouse held a special place in the hearts of the community, its historical value and sentimental significance are irreplaceable. Can you imagine the shock and sadness of the community? I mean, this golf club has been around for close to 80 years, and it’s not just a place to play golf, it’s a hub for social events and a source of earning bread for so many people.

Investigations are going on to find out the cause of the fire which is being led by Limuru Deputy County Commissioner Charles Mukele. The community can only mourn the loss of a treasured landmark. As Limuru Golf Club Chairman John Kieru so eloquently put it, the loss is not just financial, but also emotional as the club’s “heritage and irreplaceable trophies” have been destroyed. Now, we can only hope the same does not happen with everyone’s beloved Riviera Country Club.