Shell, title sponsor since 1992, signs five-year renewal with Houston Open

Shell Oil Co. has agreed to a five-year extension as the title sponsor of the Houston Open.

The oil giant has been the tournament’s title sponsor since 1992, the third-longest tenure on the PGA Tour. The event dates to 1946, and is the 10th oldest tournament on the tour.

“To me, this is much more than a golf tournament,” Shell President Marvin Odum said. “It is an opportunity for us to give back to the city and citizens of Houston through charitable contributions.”

Since Shell became the lead sponsor, the tournament has raised more than $50 million for the Houston Golf Association to contribute to regional, youth-based charities. Last year, the tournament generated about $2.1 million for charities.

“Shell Oil Company has given our event great stability and its support has enabled our organization to continue to positively impact the lives of young people every year,” HGA President and CEO Steve Timms said.

The Houston Open begins Thursday at Redstone Golf Club, its host site since 2003. It moved from the Members Course to the adjacent Tournament Course in 2006.

Anthony Kim is the defending champion this year. Phil Mickelson, Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington and Lee Westwood are also here, using the event to tune up for next week’s Masters.