LPGA's Kia Classic to return to San Diego in 2012

Sandra Gal, of Germany, makes par on the first hole in the final round of the LPGA Kia Classic golf tournament at Industry Hills Golf Club in Industry, Calif., Sunday, March 27, 2011.

CARLSBAD, Calif. — The LPGA Kia Classic will return to La Costa Resort and Spa near San Diego in 2012, where the inaugural event was held in 2010.

The tour announced Monday that the 144-player event will be held March 19-25.

Last year's Kia Classic was moved to the Los Angeles suburb of Industry because of a $50 million renovation project at La Costa during the past year. Sandra Gal of Germany won the tournament by a shot.

La Costa features two 18-hole courses, and the 2012 tournament will be played exclusively on the Legends Course, where four holes have been renovated.