Each spring, Valley Oaks Golf Course in Visalia is filled to capacity, and this year was no different.

Over 250 golfers were in attendance at the March 25th 2011, Louis F. Ruiz Golf Invitational, gathering from all corners of the US: Minnesota, Texas, Florida, Colorado, New Jersey, Washington, and of course, California.

Golfers enjoyed a day of shopping in the on-site Titleist store, barbecued tri-tip donated and prepared by Hermano sponsor Harris Ranch, plus an abundance of Tornados for breakfast, and an all-day offering of El Monterey tamales. The participants gathered for awards following golf and were treated to El Monterey products including Li'l Diablos (stuffed jalapenos) and Potato Skins.

The 29-hole Valley Oaks Golf Course is the only local course able to handle such a large number of golfers. In addition to the course staff, the event relied on volunteers from Ruiz 4 Kids, Ruiz Foods and the community.

The Ruiz Invitational directly fuels the Ruiz 4 Kids Scholarship Program. Over the past 25 years, Ruiz 4 Kids has awarded over $1M in scholarships. This year’s event allowed Ruiz 4 Kids to award a record-setting $188,000 in scholarships.

Since 2011 was over capacity, those wishing to participate in the 2012 Ruiz Invitational are urged to commit early.

The 2012 Ruiz Invitational is set for Tuesday, May 8th at Valley Oaks Golf Course in Visalia, California. Stay tuned for registration details.

Click here to see our 2011 Sponsors PDF