U can tell us later man, be cool to know who you're bragging about
Just to wrap this up for those interested, was an absolutely amazing event.
Unquestionably the best golf event I've ever been to from the point of view of event management and fan experience. The players were clearly happy to be there and very relaxed, and the fan/player interaction was a standout.
In terms of the golf, I found the shotgun start worked really well from a spectator point of view on the second and third day when the groups were spread, not so much when they were selected in marquee groups day one. Day 1 was a day to stake out a spot on a couple of holes and watch groups come through as following them was very difficult, but once the field spread day 2 and 3 was easy to wander around and did multiple holes with the likes of Smith, Mickelson, Johnson, DeChambeau and had great views of them all.
The shotgun start definitely makes it easier to watch big names because they are all out together, not split like a normal tournament. Had a spot in hospitality and barely used it at all once golf was on, much more fun out on the course.
The conclusion is certainly different with players all over the course so you rely more on the scoreboards and have to take some punts about where you watch. If you got a situation where there were multiple players contending all over the course I can see how it would be very exciting but perhaps a little frustrating as well.
The music plays at every tee and green all day, not really my bag but after 10 minutes you don't really notice it anyway. Ditto the party hole (named TBR Hole after I birdied it in the pro am), didn't even go over there as it's not my thing, hate it at Phoenix as well, but clearly a lot of fun for lots of people.
On the Pro Am, all I can say is if you love golf then take the chance to do this one day if you can. It might cost you a house deposit and you might have to lie about that to your wife, but it is an amazing experience that is well worth it if you have the means.
I was really lucky with the 2 players I drew, 9 holes with each and both were absolute gentlemen. One had been to the AFL on the weekend and on discovering my background spent 3 holes asking non stop questions about the game. They were both very generous with advice and both said hello all three days of the tournament on spotting me in the gallery, and invited me inside the ropes to walk a hole on the last day which was an amazing experience to see the crowd from a players perspective. My son caddied for me and one player insisted he play the last two holes of the day as well which he was thrilled with. the Throw in getting to meet all the other players and it was a great day.
As for the golf, no official scoring took place but like an under 10 at footy I couldn't resist. Some very generous tees and much more friendly pins allowed me to mix a couple of birdies with a few bogeys and pars, didn't disgrace myself and wouldn't have been last in the field on Day 1, in fact I could have made the Rippers better!
Word on the street is the Grange is locked in for next year, with an option for 2 after that, and they are looking at a Sydney and Brisbane event next year as well so save your pennies and get involved if you can! Unfortunately it seems Melbourne are still stuck in the PGA Tour hold.
