Tucson Conquistadores

Inducted Class of 2000

The Tucson Conquistadores, Inc., is a non-profit organization that promotes interest in amateur athletics among youth in Tucson, particularly disadvantaged and handicapped children. It also has drawn national attention to the city with its annual sponsorship of the Tucson Open Golf Tournament. The Conquistadores began in 1962 and today has a limited active membership of 50 business and professional men and a total membership of just over 150 who represent a cross-section of the Tucson community.

The Conquistadores assumed sponsorship of the Tucson Open in 1966 with a purse of $60,000. As of 2000, the purse had grown to $3,200,000. During the years, the Conquistadores have donated approximately $6.5 million to amateur athletics. The organization is also the proud sponsors of the city and county Youth Golf Programs which allow youngsters to learn and enjoy the game of golf throughout the year.

The Conquistadores have contributed to many other associations as well, including the Arthritis Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, Boys & Girls Clubs of Tucson, Girl Scouts of America, Little Leagues of Tucson, MDA, Open Inn, Special Olympics and America Athletic Association of the Deaf.