Watching Golf

[Old Colner]

I have been to The Open on practice days when it has been in the North West recently, a do agree it is a great experience and good to so the pro's up close,
I would advise that if you go practice days you may be disappointed if you are going to see somebody in particular as times are not always adhered to and often no shows, especially if the weather is not too good.

 

[pendodave]

Totally agree. You will be able to get up right beside the players. No ropes so much better viewing.

Agreed. For all sorts of reasons Walton heath is the year's best golf viewing. Check out previous threads on the subject for details.

 

[Jimaroid]

With a pair of decent compact binoculars you can't go wrong as a spectator. You then have the option of getting up close or standing back and watching what's happening across numerous holes/tees/greens.

 

[Dando]

Agreed. For all sorts of reasons Walton heath is the year's best golf viewing. Check out previous threads on the subject for details.

Last year I parked myself by the 16th Green on the Old course and had decent views of that hole and the 17th along with the 1st and 2nd of the New. after an hour or so we just wondered about freely jumping from hole to hole.

 

[Lord Tyrion]

Definitely go. I usually go on Thursday or Friday. Never been at the weekend. The practice day is good too, smaller crowds and the players a bit more relaxed.

Etiquette is pretty easy. Stand still and quietly when near a player playing and no mobile phones or cameras during the tournament rounds.

Top advice here. It is great to see the pro's live and you really can get up very close. I went to the Johnnie Walker at Gleneagles a few years ago. There were signs everywhere telling you not to have phones, camera's and don't speak to the players. We were terrified to breathe at first but then you get the hang of it and relax.

Thursday and Friday are quieter than weekends and you also get to see all the players so they would be my favoured days as well.

Clothing. Depends on the weather but golf shoes make a load of sense as do golf waterproofs if it will be wet. Why not, they work. 90% of people there will be in golf gear so don't worry about what to wear. No one checks your clothes when you go in.

Go to one tournament and you will want to go again. It really is inspiring to see them play.

 

[mikejohnchapman]

Totally agree with the comments on Walton Heath which is a great day with no ropes around the course.

As far as the PGA is concerned I suggest 2 things: spend some time watching the pros on the range / practice green which is always interesting. Also spend some time getting out to the holes away from the clubhouse when you can see the field through the day without such a big crowd. The loop (8 thru 10) is a good place to start,