The PGA Tour has erased the Booz Allen Classic from its summer slot, perhaps for good. With that in mind, fans should make the most of this year?s tournament that begins today at TPC at Avenel. Here are a few tips for spectators.
Who to follow (for fun): Fred Funk. Even if you are not a fan of the Takoma Park native and former University of Maryland golf coach, Funk is a treat at Avenel. The 50-year-old pro is always animated and someone from his Natty Bo-fueled gallery is guaranteed to yell, “Fear the Turtle.”
Who to follow (for amazement): J.B. Holmes. In the absence of John Daly and Bubba Watson, the big bomber to watch is the 5-foot-11, 190-pound Holmes, who ranks second on the Tour in driving distance (311 yards) and notched his first victory in February at the FBR.
Who to follow (for patriotism): Billy Hurley III. The lieutenant in the U.S. Navy is on leave for six months to play professional golf. Hurley, 24, is from Leesburg and graduated from the Naval Academy. In his first PGA Tour event in March at Bay Hill, he won $18,150.
Where to go to watch (front 9): No. 6. The shaded hills surrounding the green provide relief from the sun on this risk/reward par-5 that produces ample drama in the form of birdies, eagles, and dreaded “others.”
Where to go to watch (back 9): No. 16. From the hillside overlooking the 16th green, fans also can see the scenic par-3 17th where players have to deal with a large pond. It?s the place to be on Sunday when the leaders come down the stretch.
Where to go to watch (practice): Putting green. In addition to watching players hone their syrupy strokes, this is the place to go to watch them up close, interacting with each other, as well as with cadies and fans.
Where to go to listen: Each day the first 1,000 fans to the XM tent near the 18th green, will receive complimentary radios on which they can listen to live coverage of the tournament.
Where to go to eat: Grey Goose Pavillion. Tiredof dogs and burgers? The Grey Goose Pavilion Club near the 18th green will serve Crab Cakes, Ocean City fries, turkey club wraps, and Thai noodle salad.
Where to go to park: Grass lots off Oaklyn Drive in Potomac. Onsite parking is available there. On Saturday and Sunday, you can park at Marriott Headquarters (10400 Fernwood Drive in Bethesda) and ride a shuttle bus straight to the clubhouse Avenel.
Where to go for autographs: 18th Hole. Don?t try to flag down a pro before or during a round. Best to catch him after he finishes playing and has signed his scorecard.
Where to go with young kids: Straight back to the parking lot. Amazingly, each year, many young parents bring kids in strollers. Bad idea. Kids melt down in 90-degree heat.
What not to bring: Cell phones, BlackBerrys and coolers. Cameras are prohibited once the tournament begins.
