Futures Tour

[Sam-Tee-Time]

My observations from this weekend's event.....

www.duramedfuturestour.com

I attended my first Futures Tour event at the "Power of a Dream Futures Classic" here in Frisco TX. It was such a positive experience, I thought I'd share my thoughts………..

Firstly - the tickets were very inexpensive ($10), and parking was free. This by itself is a bonus, as the cost$ are much less than PGA events in this area. Once you arrive on-site, the venue is much smaller, more accessible to restrooms, facilities, or practice areas, and the players are MUCH more approachable. It was amazing how readily the players will interact with the fans. Interestingly enough - they seemed to be short of volunteers, which was very encouraging, as I always try to volunteer for the Byron Nelson and Colonial tournaments, but NEVER get called. :cheesy:

I found it unusual that only a FEW players had caddies. I would think that an event of this magnitude would have several local golfers, teaching pros, or volunteers to carry their bags, and give course advise. Instead - the players without caddies had their golf bags mounted on a golf cart, with a volunteer driver. Now that I know this, I will make the opportunity to volunteer next year. Also unusually - there were no roped off areas, or designed fan/player areas. Fundamentally everyone walked around the course with (almost) free reign, as long as you did not tread upon the greens or teebox areas.

Once on the course………it's awkward to see how FEW fans follow the groups. On many occasions - I felt somewhat uncomfortable, as I was the only person observing the groups, and it felt weird to clap, congratulate, or say "Great shot!" to the players. I'm not used to being the ONLY fan like this. On a few occasions, I felt very awkward, and stumbled out very garbled responses such as "Nice Shot", "Great Drive", or "Nice par Save!". I felt bad for them -they are great players playing a national Tour, and the fan support seemed far too small for a city of this size (Dallas TX metroplex) to watch this event. However -the players seemed very grateful, and appreciative of (sparse) fan support, and would respond with a nice smile or a friendly wave. :D

On the day I watched the tournament, I wanted to see some of the "Big Break V" ladies. I followed Kristina Tucker, and Dana Lacey, both of whom seemed very nice, and friendly. Of course -they are both very easy on the eyes, and had the most charming accents! :bb: Dana Lacey had the biggest gallery of about 10-12 people, which dwindled down to 2-3 people by the end of her round. Wow, she's cute! :golfer:

http://www.duramedfuturestour.com/PlayerBi...erKristina.html
http://www.duramedfuturestour.com/PlayerBios/LaceyDana.html



As far as their TALENT - it is readily apparent to see the talent of the players. Some players struggled with their putting and short games, but others are very sharp from both tee to green, with controlled, rhythmic, and easy pars, thrown in with birdie opportunities. As with the PGA or LPGA tours - the players have very very good swings, and carry themselves in a professional manner. The average amateur player will benefit from watching their games - very mangeable, and controlled.

My "Stalker Vibe" felt very odd at times. As a 40-ish single man, it felt a little uncomfortable following these young ladies, and I felt like a "dirty old man" at times. It doesn't help that I look like an overweight, Hispanic graying version of George Clooney……… Brad Pitt I’m NOT. On one occasion - a cute Argentinian player said something to me……….. which I responded with the idiotic, stumbling, garbled "How are You?" response - #$##$#@$@#!! ;) On another occasion - a very attractive player startled me by walking directly in front of me - which I responded to by biting my tongue and drawing a good amount of blood. I tried to only follow groups for a few holes, to eliminate them thinking I’m stalking them or something bad. Dangit - I wish I had more Mojo than this. :ok:

After their rounds, the players are even more approachable. They gladly sign any autograph presented to them, and seemed to spend a LOT of time chatting with the sponsors and fans. I was really amazed by this - unlike the PGA Tour Robots - these young ladies are full of charm, personality, and a fresh attitude towards the game and their patrons/fans. It was marvelous to watch, and was a tremendously enjoyable experience.

(cool)

Summary - Any golfer should treat themselves to a Futures Tour event. This was very, very enjoyable, and much less expen$ive than any PGA Tour event. The players, atmosphere, and fans were so much more enjoyable, and it made for a terrific feeling environment, especially for families and children. I would encourage all of you to check the Futures Tour website, and attend an event near you. Especially if you have kids, or a golf team, this is a great way to introduce them to professional golf.

[Golf_Beauty]

Thank you, Sam! That was a very enjoyable read. I'm happy to hear that they're as nice as they were portrayed on BBV. :) Hopefully that won't change if/when they make it to the LPGA. But as I know it right now, the LPGA players are more approachable than the PGA, so there's hope they'll stay the same.

[Sisu]

Thanks for the post :)

[RagingAardvark]

Sounds great! I wanted to take my wife to one, but they won't be coming through Colorado. Heck, neither will the LPGA this year. :)

[PGMlady]

I've been to a couple futures tour events myself and they are great. Great golf at a great price and barely any crowds!

[Gub]

Great topic; thanks for posting it.

 

I hope to get to the FUTURES event when it's in Concord NH in August... it's a tough weekend tho' - the Legends Tour (formerly the Womens Sr Golf Tour) are going to be in Quincy (Boston) MA the very same weekend... wish they weren't scheduled that way! I need to drop both tours a note to see if they could avoid the overlap in the future. :)

 

I get a weekly news release via email from the Duramed FUTURES Tour and it contained a funny quote this week:

 

6. Quote of the Week

"People only recognize me when I'm with Becky."

- Dana Lacey of North Beach, Western Australia, regarding being recognized in public with fellow Big Break V: Hawaii participant Becky Lucidi.

 

:ok: :bb:

 

Deb.

[imabeatonu]

I caddied there this weekend... my girl shot 84-75 and didnt make the cut... i was suprised that noooo one came to watch..those girls are pretty good

[freddiec]

great review of a futures event. I was cracking up over your comments. I'm very surprised there were few people following the groups. I''ll have to see if an event will be in my area this year, i'd like to check one out.