Not many people say “No,” to Tiger Woods.
But Congressional Country Club nearly did, agreeing to host the AT&T National by a very slim margin, 791 for to 745 against. Last year when members were polled on hosting the 2009 event, they approved by a resounding 91 percent.
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What changed?
“A lot of members are asking, ‘Where does this all end?’” said Congressional president Bret Hart of the club’s busy tournament schedule.
Congressional now will host Woods’ tournament in 2012-14, with an option to continue in 2015-17. Congressional hosted the AT&T in 2007 and ’08, and will do so again next summer, but will relinquish the tournament the following two years.
After the 2009 AT&T National, Congressional’s greens will be redone with bent grass in preparation for the 2011 U.S. Open. The AT&T National has yet to announce a site for 2010 and 2011. Aronimink in suburban Philadelphia is believed to be the frontrunner.
Congressional is guaranteed a $1.25 million site fee, plus a cut of food, beverage, and merchandise. The fees have allowed the club to make pricey upgrades. But many members have become increasingly displeased that the course and its facilities are unavailable during July 4th week.
At a town hall meeting at the club on July 29, PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem assured members he was seeking an earlier date for the tournament. A week in May would be optimal for weather and would be more palatable for members.
There are prestige considerations as well. Some Congressional members believe their club is above hosting an annual PGA Tour stop and were miffed at the less-than-elite field for the 2008 AT&T.
But in the end, there was one over-riding factor that worked in favor of the AT&T National.
“In reality it’s Tiger Woods,” said Hart.
