LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The practice rounds are over, and the 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club is underway.
Justin Thomas enjoyed a champion’s introduction Thursday as the Louisville native began competitive play shortly before 8 a.m.
He started on Hole 10, which meant it would only take a few hours before walking up to the 18th green, where Atlanta resident Eddie Sims and his group were charmed by the host club.
“Man, what a phenomenal facility,” Sims said. “I’ve been to a few major championship venues, and Valhalla is just a phenomenal golf course.”
The 18th gallery applauded loudly once more as Thomas was introduced at the green.
“What a great ambassador for Louisville," Sims said. "He loves this town. I’ve seen in interviews how much this means to him to have the PGA Championship in his own backyard."
Over on the 10th fairway, the Wojnicki family, with dad Aaron and his three sons, enjoyed a father-sons trip.
"I don’t know when the next time a tournament of this caliber with this quality of players is going to be in our backyard," Aaron Wojnicki said.
His son, Noah, was particularly excited to see Texas native Jordan Spieth.
“I got to see Jordan Spieth off the tee, which was super cool, and I got to see (broadcaster) Jim Nantz riding on a golf cart,” Noah Wojnicki said.
Moving off 10 and toward the 12th fairway were Lexington residents Jakob Hamilton and Carter Penegor hanging out in the shade amid the long grass.
“Right now, we’re on Hole 12, kind of up in the trees, overlooking the greens,” Hamilton said. “We’ve seen some balls go over our heads, which is cool, but it’s a nice spot. We really like the breeze and the shade."
Tournament play resumes Friday.