The Bridgestone Invitational is held in the first week of August in Akron Ohio, at the famous Firestone Country Club South Course. The dates for 2009 are August 4-9. The best players in golf will be at this event, which boasts a limited field of champions from the world’s tours.
Golfers from all continents compete on the course made famous by hosting the NEC Invitational, the World Series of Golf and the CBS Golf Classic.
Tickets
Tickets are available for each day, or can be purchased for the week. The actual tournament is held over four days, Thursday through Sunday, with practice rounds open to the public on Tuesday and Wednesday. VIP packages can be purchased, providing Clubhouse access and admission.
Other packages provide access to the Championship Club, a large air-conditioned tent, with food stands, televisions and restrooms, to provide a break from the all-day event. The price for a daily ticket is higher on the weekend, and there are youth tickets at reduced prices.
A very lucky fan is one who obtains a pass to a hospitality tent or villa, which provides a great view to watch the tournament with all the amenities of a luxury suite.
Upon entering the event, there are booths from vendors, with promotional gifts and swing analyzers. Cell phones are not permitted on the grounds, and cameras are not permitted except during practice rounds. Portable chairs are allowed, but any covers for the chair cannot be taken in.
Parking is free with admission, but the public parking lot is a few miles away, near the Goodyear blimp air dock, (a sight in itself). Shuttle buses take the fans to the front gate, a 20 minute ride. During busy times, especially at the end of the day, there can be a wait for buses.
A main concern is inclement weather, not unlikely for Northeast Ohio in August. The tournament will continue during light rain, and umbrellas are allowed. During a lightning storm, the course will be cleared and fans will need to find shelter. Play will resume if possible.
Firestone’s South Course
The course is long and gallery friendly. There are places to view every shot, and the greens are especially set up for fan viewing. Except for the television and marshal's towers at each hole, there are spots to place your chair, or take a seat on the grass near the green. There are large metal seating sections at several holes, including the ninth. Large structures at the 16th and 18th holes are reserved for corporate sponsors.
The 16th is the famous hole known as The Monster, at over 600 yards is almost impossible for even the longest hitters to each in two, since the approach must clear a lake. All of the holes offer something of interest. For instance, the second is a difficult uphill test rarely birdied, the third a picturesque hole requiring a shot over water, and the 18th, a very long hole, is downhill for a long distance, and the ball will roll for seemingly forever when struck by these golfers.
Firestone is a favorite among fans and players alike, and this is the one time a year most fans will be able to see it. It is worth a trip to Akron to enjoy the finest golf in the world.
 |
