For 18 years, San Diego Police Officer Debbie Ganley has had inside-the-ropes access at the Farmers Insurance Open, spending much of her time managing the craziness that surrounds Tiger Woods.
On Wednesday, Ganley was part of the show.
When Woods reached the 18th tee at Torrey Pines South during his pro-am round, Ganley — in full uniform, gun in her holster — was handed a caddie bib with her name on the back, and Woods’ caddie, Joe LaCava, gave her the player’s bag.
The gesture was part of a weeklong celebration of the career of Ganley, 57, who is retiring from the police department. The Farmers Open rewarded her with its first Hometown Hero Award, and she will be recognized in Sunday’s post-round awards ceremony.
“To be a part of that, walking the 18th … I can’t believe I’m here,” Ganley said. “It’s like a dream come true.”
Side-by-side, Woods and Ganley strolled up the fairway, warmly reminiscing about the crossing of their paths in life, with the cop having accompanied one of the game’s greatest players for seven of his eight pro victories at Torrey Pines.
“I told him about all of the experiences we had together,” Ganley said. “He is definitely the highlight of my career.
“We talked about the 2008 U.S. Open. I was underneath the stands at 18 when he made his putt (to force a playoff), and I thought we were having an earthquake!
“Over the years, he’s won here so many times. It’s been such my honor to be a part of that, part of his success. He changed the golf world 100 percent.”
After Woods putted out at 18, the two shared a warm embrace and posed for photos.
“It’s so special to have her out here,” Woods said. “What she’s meant to the event, and for my safety out here … she’s always taken good care of me.”
Outgoing and personable, Ganley became emotional when she spoke of her time watching over Woods drawing to an end. She was teary-eyed behind her dark sunglasses.
“Knowing this is my last year, it was extremely special to be with him, and spend some time,” Ganley said. “I am truly going to miss Tiger Woods. He’s been an inspiration to me, and not only that, I feel like a friend. He’s going to be somebody that it’s tough to say goodbye to.”
