Greetings Golfers,

So, they just announced that the US Open will be played at Winged Foot GC on Sept 17-20.

And, it will not have spectators in attendance. The PGA Championship – which takes place next week – will also be held without fans.

I’m glad those Majors are happening. Looks like the Masters will be held in November. Since I’ll be watching television … I don’t really care if there are spectators in attendance.

Have you watched a televised baseball this year? I haven’t … but I’ve heard that they have fake crowds. Why? I don’t get it. How does that add to the game?

Do you like “laugh tracks” on tv shows? Why would they do that to sporting events?

I think televised sports have a great opportunity to mic up the players so we can hear the game on the field.

And golf should do it too. How good would it be to hear the conversations between players and their caddies?

Hmmm. I don’t think it’s a tough choice between hearing intelligent discussion or people yelling in a crowd. If viewers miss yelling … I’m sure they can invite over some neighbors who just enjoy yelling … then everybody can be happy.

However, I think the live mic thing should not happen at the Majors. The Majors should be as serious as possible … though I think normal weekly PGA Tour golf is more about entertainment.

We all know recreational golfers who think every round they play is the US Open. They might have more fun and even play better if they realized it’s just entertainment.

PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has said that he remains hopeful to have fans by the end of the year. Well, he does have fans … watching on television. A lot of us would like to hear what’s really happening on the golf course.

This could a great opportunity for televised sports.

Cheers,

Tom Abts
GM/Head PGA Professional
tabts@deerrungolf.com

Deer Run Golf Club
8661 Deer Run Drive
Victoria, MN 55386
(952) 443-2351
www.deerrungolf.com
www.facebook.com/DeerRunGolf
www.twitter.com/DeerRunGolfClub