History OF THE TUCSON CONQUISTADORES

GIVING BACK THROUGH
GOLF Since 1962

More than sixty years ago, a group of Tucson businessmen met to discuss how they could support youth athletics in our city. Those humble beginnings and the desire to help others has grown into a storied history of supporting local children and a continued commitment to Southern Arizona.

Since that first meeting in 1962, the Tucson Conquistadores have championed a singular purpose — to strengthen Southern Arizona through the power of sport. Guided by camaraderie, leadership, and service, we work to open doors for young athletes, create opportunities for those with special needs, and build a stronger, more connected community.

1960s

1970s

1980s

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2010s

2020s +

'62

Founded in service and sports

THE CHARTER MEMBERS

On October 22, 1962 a yet-to-be-named group of 41 civic leaders and golf enthusiasts who wanted to help local kids have life-altering experiences through sports holds their first official meeting at the original El Conquistador Hotel; Roy P. Drachman is elected president.

'63

From hard work and humble beginnings

FOUNDED IN FUNDRAISING

Officially dubbed The Tucson Conquistadores (CQs), the club's first fundraiser - a Sports Award Banquet - is held at the Pioneer Hotel to raise money for Southern Arizona kids who couldn't afford access to sports. That same year, our group's first "Closed" - an annual member's only golf event - is held at the White Mountain CC in Pinetop.

'66

Pioneers of pro golf in the Old Pueblo

THE TUCSON OPEN

The Conquistadores take the helm of the PGA Tour's famous Tucson Open golf tournament, Tucson's first-ever sporting event to be broadcast live on national television, bringing Hollywood stars and huge attention to our city and our charity. CQ charter member and local business leader Fred Boice becomes the first tournament chairman.

'68

Off to a swinging start

THE HELMET TROPHY

Famous actors and athletes like Lawrence Welk, Bing Crosby, Joe Garagiola, Lee Trevino and more make their appearance in our town and at the Tucson Open. The winner that year - George Knudson - received the first-ever Conquistador helmet trophy, becoming the first in a legendary line of pro golfers to don what is often dubbed the "the greatest trophy in sports."

'69

Blending sales with brotherhood

'BUCKET SHOP' BEGINS

Exactly how and when it was started, and how it got its name, remain part of Conquistador lore, but the annual tradition of 'Bucket Shop' is still an integral bonding experience for our members filled with laughs, stories and sales. With its origins in the late 60s as a way to help CQ rookie members achieve their aggressive sales goals, the original 'Bucket Shop' attendees used telephones to 'dial-for-dollars' and raise funds by randomly cold-calling local businesses straight out of the phone book.

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1960s

1970s

1980s

1990s

2000s

2010s

2020s +

'62

Founded in service and sports

THE CHARTER MEMBERS

'63

From hard work and humble beginnings

FOUNDED IN FUNDRAISING

'66

Pioneers of pro golf in the Old Pueblo

THE TUCSON OPEN

'68

Off to a swinging start

THE HELMET TROPHY

'69

Blending sales with brotherhood

'BUCKET SHOP' BEGINS

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The iconic CQ helmet

Our Legacy of Leadership and Giving

Ever since pro golfer George Knudson donned the first one in 1968 after winning the Tucson Open, the unique Conquistador helmet has become the most distinctive trophy in all of sports.

Modeled after the original Spanish helmets of the 16th century and made famous by the biggest names in professional golf, this one-of-a-kind award is more than a symbol for the Tucson Conquistadores - it's our logo, part of our lore, and golf's most legendary trophy.

Tucson Conquistadores Charter Members

Roy P. Drachman
R.B. "Buck" O'Rielly
Fred Boice
Bob Felix
Tom Chandler
Alvin Kivel
Roy "Manny" Drachman
Hank Leiber

Roy P. Drachman
R.B. "Buck" O'Rielly
Fred Boice
Bob Felix
Tom Chandler
Alvin Kivel
Roy "Manny" Drachman
Hank Leiber

Our Legacy of Leadership and Giving

Over the decades, our members have raised millions of dollars to support youth athletics and local charities—leaving a meaningful mark on Tucson’s history and future alike.

But leaving a legacy in our community takes the contribution of everyone in it. That's why we established our Foundation - so the positive ripple effects of giving back and getting involved will continue to impact the lives of young people for generations.

Over the decades, our members have raised millions of dollars to support youth athletics and local charities—leaving a meaningful mark on Tucson’s history and future alike.

Support our Foundation

Moments That Define Us

From early golf tournaments and local community events to today’s charitable milestones, these images capture the spirit and camaraderie that have defined the Tucson Conquistadores for generations. Each photo tells part of our story—of teamwork, dedication, and the enduring commitment to making a difference in Southern Arizona.