LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The PGA Championship has arrived at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, where some of the world's best golfers are competing.
Tournament play begins Thursday, but the practice rounds have already brought in thousands of fans to watch the pros become familiar with the course.
“We definitely wanted to come today,” said spectator Stephanie Geddes.
The golfers were out on the course early Monday, and Geddes and friend Stuart Hagan were perched above the 13th tee box with a great view of the 18th fairway and green.
“We’re watching Tiger Woods putting right now on the 18th green,” Geddes said.
Woods won the PGA Championship in 2000, which Valhalla Golf Club also hosted.
The Prospect residents said they took in as much as they could before retreating to their respected professions.
“It’s really neat to watch them practice," Hagan said, looking out over the course. "It gives you some insight into what they do to get ready for the real deal."
The "real deal," when scores start to count, begins Thursday. While many pros were already on the course, some were also on the practice range and short game practice areas of Valhalla, where Max Huffman of Indianapolis watched Woods practice from only a few yards away.
“It’s really cool,” Huffman said.
Hagan, who is also an ER doctor, was on Valhalla's volunteer medical staff while hosting the 2008 Ryder Cup. He said fans attending should wear lots of sunscreen, drink lots of water and anyone consuming alcohol should drink in moderation.
Golfers from 26 countries are playing this week at Valhalla. There are also pros from 24 states in the field, and 16 past PGA champions are competing.