Benalmádena experienced one of the most emotional nights in the history of Golf Torrequebrada with the celebration of the commemorative gala for its 50th anniversary, an event full of memories, tributes and recognition to all the people who have been part of the human and sporting growth of the club during these five decades.

The gala was presented by María Acacia López-Bachiller, one of the great references of golf journalism in Spain, and Javier Varela, who led an evening marked by emotion from the first moment. 

The event was opened by María Gálvez Fernández, president of Golf Torrequebrada, who gave one of the most profound and emotional speeches of the night, recalling the origins of the club and the arrival of her family to Benalmádena in the late 1960s.

María Gálvez expressed her special gratitude to everyone who has been part of the club's history over the past fifty years and paid a very special tribute to those who are no longer with us. She also highlighted the importance of key figures such as José Gancedo, the course designer and a historical icon of Spanish golf, as well as the crucial role of the Jiménez Rodríguez family in the development of Golf Torrequebrada. 

One of the most emotional moments came when she remembered the figure of Juan Jiménez, stating emotionally: "Without Juan Jiménez it would have been impossible.".

Later, Pablo Mansilla, president of the Royal Andalusian Golf Federation, spoke, highlighting the enormous historical, sporting and emotional value that Golf Torrequebrada represents for several generations of Andalusian and Spanish golfers.

Mansilla defined the anniversary as "half a century of passion, excellence and sport", also recalling the legacy of Pepe Gancedo, the work of Luis Gálvez and the historical importance of the Manuel Montero Memorial in the development of Andalusian and national golf. 

The institutional delegation was headed by the Mayor of Benalmádena, Juan Antonio Lara, accompanied by Alejandro Carretero, Enrique Moya, Manuel Cardeña, María de la Presentación Aguilera, and María Esperanza González. During his speech, the Mayor highlighted the enormous transformation of Benalmádena and the visionary role of those who spearheaded it. 

Golf Torrequebrada fifty years ago

The gala paid tribute to several key figures in the history of Golf Torrequebrada. One of the awards was dedicated to José María Pérez Casero, remembered as a much-loved figure deeply connected to the early years of the Torrequebrada complex. The award was accepted by his wife, María Victoria Pérez.

Pepe Gancedo, the course designer and one of the great figures of Spanish golf, was also honored, and his recognition was accepted by Lupe Rey.

Another tribute was dedicated to Manuel Montero, a key figure in the project's continuity during its most difficult years. Following his death in 1978, the historic Manuel Montero Memorial was created in his memory, a tournament that left its mark on an entire generation of young golfers and remains fondly remembered by those who played it. The award was accepted by his children, María Luisa, Gloria, and Manuel Montero.

One of the most moving moments of the entire gala was dedicated to the Jiménez Rodríguez brothers, a family inseparable from the history of Golf Torrequebrada. For decades, José Antonio, Miguel Ángel, Juan, Manuel, Fernando, Pedro, and David Jiménez Rodríguez were linked to the club both professionally and personally.

With over forty years dedicated to Golf Torrequebrada, Juan Jiménez was recognized as one of the most important figures in the club's sporting and personal growth. With his characteristic humility, he moved all those present by stating: “I'm not a great teacher; I've simply managed to instill a passion for golf in my students.”.

The presence of Miguel Ángel Jiménez was also particularly moving, as he recalled how Golf Torrequebrada marked the beginning of his sporting career and how the club believed in him from the start. “Golf Torrequebrada was the one that supported me and gave me the opportunity to begin and get to where I am today,” he said, visibly moved.

The event experienced one of its most moving moments when numerous students and players trained over decades by Juan Jiménez went up on stage to accompany him during the tribute, reflecting the enormous affection and respect he has sown throughout a lifetime dedicated to golf and to people.

Later, Golf Torrequebrada paid a very special tribute to Luis Gálvez, presenting him with a replica of the iconic tower that gives the club its name. The celebration brought to a close an unforgettable evening marked by remembrance, recognition, and emotion, reaffirming Golf Torrequebrada as one of the most emblematic clubs on the Costa del Sol and in Andalusian golf.

SOURCE: Golf Torrequebrada