I'm going to my first PGA event.

Its alot of fun - when I go (the Byron Nelson and the Collonial - I will typically camp out at a hole that I can watch the players hit an approach to then put - but also where I can watch them tee off on the next hole. It is the best stategy if you want to get close to the big names. You will be amazed at the swell in the crowds when Tiger is making his way down the fairway - to a lesser extent VJ Phil and the other big names have the same effect.

After that I will find lesser player and follow them around the course, if Fred Funk is playing he is a fun one to follow - he plays to the crowd more than the rest do. Big John Daly is also fun to follow - you never know what will happen with him!

Leave your cell phone and camera at home

 

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I love going to a PGA tournaments. I used to live near the TPC/Sawgrass and was able to go when I lived there. Now, I usually go to the Doral Open each year.

I hope you have a great time. I agree with Jimmy C on his two hints; here are some more:

Get there early - even extra early. You normally have to park and then take an on-site transport to get to the actual course and this takes time. Plus, the later you go, the more crowded it gets.

Fridays are good days to go - you picked a good day. It's not nearly as crowded as Saturday or Sunday. Plus, you get to see everyone before the cut is made.

You can watch a lot of golf if you get there early enough to watch the first set tee off and then stay through the end of the day. Usually early morning and late afternoons are the least crowded.

If you get there early enough, you can watch a lot of players on the practice green or the driving range. And normally, you can get pretty close to the players.

It gets really hot out there. Bring plenty of sun protection and drink plenty of water. And wear a hat. Stay away from alcohol due to the heat.

Another place to hang out besides the par threes (where they normally have seats) is to find a good spot on the green for a par 4 or 5. You can watch the approach shots and be right there for the putts.

One of the downsides for the par threes - especially if there are seats - is that they are normally crowded and you are not as close compared to being on the ground. But then again, they have seats.

As Jimmy C said, don't bring a camera. But do bring binoculars. And sunglasses.

Bring plenty of $$$. Food and drink are usually on the high side. And none can be brought in.

Again, I hope you have a great time! I know I normally give you a tough time about Detroit, the Pistons, and the Big 10 -- all in good fun though. Let us know how you enjoyed it.

FOS