Attending Golf Tournaments

Many average golfers want to go see how the pros do it when a professional golf tour comes to their area.  Although golf seems to be a spectator’s sport that plays better on television, golf enthusiasts should go experience a live event at least once.  Here are some tips and information that may help you.  Most professional golf events have websites that can answer frequently asked questions.

Tickets – Most professional events allow you to purchase tickets on a per-day basis, or sell ticket packages for the duration of the event.  For most PGA Tour, LPGA and Champions Tour events, expect to pay around $30 for a single day ticket, and around $75 for a four-day pass.  If you wish to attend a Nationwide Tour Event, single-day tickets cost about $10, with weeklong event packages in the $30 range.  “Major” tournaments will likely cost a little more to attend.

What To Bring – It is important to check with the particular even that you will be attending to determine what you can and cannot bring to the course with you (esp. refreshments, chairs and cameras).  Backpacks are usually allowed as long as they are carrying towels, sunscreen and clothing.  Generally, you will want to travel light, since it will be a long day, and you will likely be walking several miles.  Dress comfortably, protect yourself from the sun with sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

Parking and Accommodations – Again, you should check with the event regarding parking.  Because many country clubs and golf courses that host professional events are located in suburban neighborhoods, parking may be limited.  Field or roadside parking may be available, but in many cases, spectators will need to park at a remote location and ride a shuttle to the golf course.  The tournament’s website should also list nearby hotels that will likely provide shuttle service to and from the course.

Etiquette – Because golf is a gentleman’s game, it should be respect as such.  Silence is golden, and spectators should not talk while a golfer is preparing to swing, take pictures during a golfer’s swing, or talk to a golfer in between his or her shots.  Stay outside of designated boundaries, do not touch a ball that has been hit into the gallery, and although there may be a mad scramble to surround a miss hit ball, use common sense to avoid standing in an area between the golfer’s miss hit ball and his next target.  Failure to follow proper spectator etiquette can get you expelled from the course without a refund.