I drove two hours to attended my first LPGA event in Sylvania Ohio at the Marathon Classic Presented by Owens Corning & O-I.
This will not be my last LPGA event. These ladies are gifted athletes for sure, but what really impressed me was their repore with the fans. They were so gracious, courteous and aware of the fan base. I have been to many of the men’s events, but like you’re commercial says- “It’s different out here!”
The event itself was first class and the hosting employees and volunteers were quite accommodating. Michelle Wie, though obviously disappointed with her round, still took time to sign just about everything in sight. Cristie Kerr was especially aware of the kids who had come and that was touching. I interacted with Kelly Tan and Mariah Stackhouse and both could not have been nicer.
Finally on the first tee, after rousing intros for Stacy Lewis and Beatriz Recari, Lexi Thompson took off a glove and handed it to an elderly gentleman. The crowd just melted.
These young women are great ambassadors for the game of golf in general and women’s golf in particular. I look forward to seeing many more of them in the future. Maybe more events will be coming to Ohio. I can only hope. ( Jack Nicklaus’ course comes to mind- hint.)
Jack