Dino could really draw in the stars for the Tucson Open

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_{1973 Sheaffer photo}

_{Dean Martin and Bob Hope at the 1973 Tucson Open.}

There was concern when it was first announced that Martin would host the long running professional golf tournament. Some felt his name would do nothing but hurt the identity of the event. That concern grew when he didn’t make it to the kick off banquet because of “airplane trouble.”

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_{1972 Star photo}

_{Martin was always accompanied by the Ding-A-Ling Sisters.}

But after the first 1972 tournament and the estimated crowd of up to 25,000 for the pro-am event, any questions or lingering doubts were answered. Martin was also credited with bringing national television coverage to the tournament.

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_{1973 Star photo}

_{Martin and pal Glenn Campbell}

The 1973 Tucson Open banquet was also held without the tournament host. There was grumbling that Martin was not taking an active enough role in the festivities. But, the attendees at the dinner were not disappointed as Bob Hope filled in and stole the show.

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_{1973 Star photo}

_{Martin and golfer Lee Trevino entertained the crowd and the Ding-A-Ling Sisters.}