LAKE TAHOE, Nev. – Record-breaking crowds at Edgewood Tahoe were on hand to watch retired San Jose Shark All-Star Joe Pavelski win his first American Century Championship.
It was a special week for Pavelski in his ninth appearance at the popular celebrity golf tournament. On Friday, he celebrated his 41st birthday, on Saturday, he celebrated his 17th anniversary with his wife Sarah, and on Sunday, he won $150,000.
The only thing he didn’t win was a new boat for a hole-in-one.
“I think the number one objective this week was to make a hole-in-one and get a new boat,” said Pavelski. “Actually, it was probably the second. I really wanted to win.”
He said now he’ll have to look at some MasterCraft boats when he gets home to Wisconsin. Pavelski said he and his family had been on Lake Tahoe in one this week and they enjoyed themselves.
Pavelski has placed in the top three during the last three tournaments in Tahoe, including a second-place finish last year behind Mardy Fish.
At the start of Sunday’s final round, Pavelski shot a bogey and double-bogey, but quickly settled into a good pace with two quick birdies, wrapping up his winning round with an eagle on the 18th hole. He had the tournament won after the 17th hole with a lead over former Atlanta Braves pitcher John Smoltz, but sealed the deal with the eagle.
“I don’t know what to say, actually,” stated Pavelski. “But just an amazing week. This place is incredible. It means the world to me.”
Pavelski and Sarah celebrated their anniversary Saturday night at Brushetta on Kingsbury Grade.
“I highly recommend it,” said Pavelski during the post-tournament press conference.
He came into the media room barefoot and soaking wet after taking a plunge into Lake Tahoe after the win. He and his family had a home in Zephyr Cove this week, and he’s been swimming in the lake. Pavelski commented that he found the water at Edgewood warmer.
He said he was very appreciative of everyone who poured their heart into the tournament.
“I feel great, especially right now,” said Pavelski. “It was just an incredible week.”
