What are the most noticeable differences between the AT&T National at Congressional and the same tournament at Aronimink in Newtown Square, Pa.?
1. The course » From the veranda at Congressional, the course stretches far and wide in all directions. No wonder the first adjective often used to describe it is “big.” There is no such view from the clubhouse at Aronimink, which seems small by comparison.
2. Military » Tiger Woods has tried to import the same tournament themes. But doing up the Fourth of July and honoring service members don’t work as well in Philadelphia, a city with much less military presence.
3. Sports talk radio » Driving into Philadelphia, it’s evident that you are in a great sports town by listening to WIP. The passion for the Phillies, Flyers and 76ers far exceeds that in Washington for the Nationals, Capitals and Wizards.
4. Crowd » You’re much more likely at Aronimink to see guys over 40 with short sleeves rolled up to show off their guns. Another thing you’re more likely to encounter in Philly: Guys under 40 yelling stuff that no one understands.
5. Atmosphere » At Aronimink, the tournament has the feel of a community event. People attend to see not only the golf but their friends. Like so many events in the D.C. area, the AT&T National at Congressional has little feeling of community.
