Tom Watson hopes to conjure up more of this British open magic at Toshiba Classic

Tom Watson's runner-up performance at the 2009 British Open at age 59 was the most compelling story from any golf tournament played last year. Once again, Watson will bring his fame and world-class game to the 2010 Toshiba Classic, March 1-7 at Newport Beach Country Club.

The $1.7 million Toshiba Classic, the only Southern California event on the Champions Tour, awards a $255,000 winner's check and will be televised on Golf Channel on Friday, March 5 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. PST and on Saturday and Sunday, March 6-7 from 3:30-6 p.m. PST.

"It's a tremendous benefit to have Tom Watson return to the Toshiba Classic," Toshiba Classic Tournament Executive Director Jeff Purser said. "Like any golf fan, I was glued to the televsion during the Bristish. Many could not believe what was happening in Scotland, but being around the Champions Tour and following the players so closely, I am actually aware of the skills that Champions Tour players possess. Tom's British Open performance proves that the Champions Tour is full of players who can compete and play at the sport's highest level."

Argentina's Eduardo Romero also committed to the Toshiba Classic, ready to defend his 2009 title. Other early commitments have come from World Golf Hall of Famers Isao Aoki, Hale Irwin (a two-time Toshiba Classic winner in 1998 and 2002), Tom Kite, Larry Nelson, Nick Price and Lanny Wadkins, as well as Corona del Mar resident John Cook (runner-up in the 2009 Charles Schwab Cup standings) and former Mission Viejo resident Mark O'Meara, a 2009 Toshiba Classic runner-up.

Rookies to the Championship Tour this year who will be shaking up the field include: La Quinta resident Fred Couples, Oxnard native and this year's United States Ryder Cup Captain Corey Pavin and Paul Azinger, 2008 Ryder Cup captain. Pavin with be the guest speaker at Breakfast with a Champion, held on Tuesday, March 2, at the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel & Spa. Tickets are $120 per person.

Daily tickets for the Toshiba Classic are $20, if purchased in advance; $25 at the gate. Season clubhouse badges providing admission to the grounds and clubhouse for practice rounds and the tournament are $100. All tickets, including corporate ticket packages, can be obtained by calling (949) 660-1001 or by visiting www.ToshibaClassic.com.