The Non-Golfers Guide To The Waste Management Open
by Amy Buchan-Siegfried
If you’re like me, you head to the Waste Management Open for some sunshine, time with friends and the bloody mary’s, but not the golf. I know there are many of you who feel the same but alas there are golf fans who are at the tournament and want to talk shop. Instead of avoiding the conversation, here are a few fun pointers about to chat up a new friend in the bar line.
The Waste Management Open is the most attended tournament on the tour but is also known as the rowdiest/loudest/drunkest tournament on the tour. The icing on the cake is the 16th hole, the “Most Exciting Hole in Golf.” The par-3 hole is completely enclosed by a stadium filled with fans (see above). In fact, it’s so popular that there’s usually a line to get in. Across the Open the golf etiquette is lax, no golf clap here, but everything goes out the window at the 16th hole. Fans cheer and jeer the golfers (often times using vulgar language), all while drinking a cocktail in the sun. Trust me, it’s the most fun you’re ever going to have at a golf tournament, if you’re not a golf purist. FORE...MORE BEERS
It used to be a thing for the caddies to race on the 16th hole. Fans would bet amongst themselves as to which caddie looked the quickest. It was fun for all, except for maybe the caddies. Sadly, the PGA banned caddie races in 2014 citing concerns for safety. PARTY POOPER
The field is headlined by Arizona State University alum Phil Mickelson. He is the all-time leading money winner in tournament history and he’ll be playing in his 30th Open in 2019. Also expect to see big names like Bubba Watson and Rickie Fowler hitting the links. I SEE YOU
The title sponsor Waste Management is based in Houston, TX but their rival and biggest competitor, Republic Services, is based not far from TPC Scottsdale where the tournament is held. Nothing like taking home field advantage. GOING FOR THE JUGULAR
Headed to the Open? Here’s a guide of what to expect from gate times and security to parking. Would you like to know a few golf terms before you head out the door? Here you go.
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