52nd Annual Bob Hope Classic Tees Off
The 52nd Bob Hope Classic got underway Monday as professionals and golfers converged on PGA West for practice rounds.
Though the tournament does not officially begin until Wednesday, the arrival of the Hope was cause for celebration. “It feels great because you start the day after the tournament ends last year, ” said PGA West Executive Director Michael Kelly. “It’s aggregated time and effort and it comes to a head right now. So, now all the plans have been made, now we just sit back because it’s here, and now it’s time for us to enjoy and for people to come out and have a blast.”
The tournament features a long list of celebrity participants that add to the atmosphere at the Hope including Kurt Russell, Eric Dickerson and Greg Maddux to name a few. At its core the Bob Hope is a chance for professional golfers to start the PGA season right. Some of golf’s biggest names will be competing for the trophy at the Hope this year. The list includes last year’s winner Bill Haas, 2010 money list leader Matt Kuchar and 2007 Bob Hope Classic champion Charley Hoffman to name a few.
The golfers enjoy the environment just as much as the fans do. “I always come out early. I’ve been here since Saturday morning, playing golf around town, now finally out here playing these courses,” said Hoffman. “I know last year was a fluke, but this is how weather should be in Palm Springs: great practice facility, great golf courses and great weather.”
Temperatures for the week expected in the 70s and even 80s, providing great conditions for the Hope.
The tournament offers a great opportunity for fans to interact with the celebrities, see great golf, and to enjoy Hope Square. The fan-geared exhibit at PGA West features many food vendors, golf vendors, interactive golf games, and kid-friendly activities.
Practice rounds continue on Tuesday at the Nicklaus and Palmer Private courses at PGA West, Silver Rock resort and La Quinta Country Club.
The tournament officially begins on Wednesday with celebrities, amateurs and professionals all teeing off.
Tickets are still available and can be purchased at www.bobhopeclassic.com
