Desert Classic players ready for whatever the weather brings

Tomorrow, come rain or shine, some of the top golfers in the world will hit the greens in La Quinta for the 60th Desert Classic.

Check out the pairings and tee times for the Desert Classic

“I mean they’re in the desert, it’s supposed to be dry and it’s raining,” said Michael Sims, an attendee who has a friend playing in Desert Classic.

Dark clouds hovered ominously over the mountains as the players got warmed up out on the course.

“We’re just looking forward to making some birdies and obviously trying to stay dry,” Sims said. “You gotta take things into account. Moisture in the air, ball doesn’t go as far. It’s a little chilly out here.

With chances of rain the first couple of days, players say the showers might impact their game.

“If it’s not raining too hard it kind of softens the greens up in the fairways. That said if it’s cold the ball doesn’t go as far so it’s kind of a tradeoff,” Sims said.

Jeff Sanders, the tournament’s director, says he expects the weather might have a surprising impact on player scores.

“A little bit of rain on Thursday is just going to drive the scores lower. A lot of people think it’s going to do just the opposite, the course is going to play longer, it’s going to play harder, and it’s really not. It’s actually going to play easier,” Sanders said.

As for the crowd turnout, with “Good-any-1-day” tickets sold out online, he says they expect folks might just hold off on using those until the weather clears up.

“It’s really fun stuff. The Michelob Ultra Beer for Birdies is on 16 green and 17 tee, and the Casamigos Club 17. have a tequila or two, is on the 17th green,” Sanders said.

Watch: Behind the scenes tour at this year’s Desert Classic

If it does indeed rain, however, fans don’t have to stand in the rain. There are several indoor viewing areas and amenities, all included with the price of your entry ticket.

Fans can enjoy the event warm and inside the Albertsons-Vons-Fans Pavilion which offers several bars, restaurants, sports on the big screen and, of course, stunning views of that final hole.

“There’s three rows of seats all along here and so you can actually get something to eat and drink and come out here and sit and watch the final hole in the final green right here,” Sanders said.

Good-any-1-day tickets are sold out, but you can still buy daily tickets for $30. Click here for tickets.