By Wil Barnes
This year, the Northern Trust Open is adding some long-needed enhancements; kicking the annual PGA Tour stop up a notch or two, none more exciting than a live concert after play on Saturday, February 21 featuring O.A.R.
Two-time Masters Champion Bubba Watson returns to defend his Northern Trust Open title that he won by posting back to back rounds of 64 on the weekend last year at storied Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades. Players revere Riviera, designed by George Thomas and enhanced by Tom Fazio in 2008, and “Hogan’s Alley” is one of the most respected courses on the tour. The weather forecast for tournament week appears to be cooperating, with only a slight chance of rain on the weekend and temperatures should be in the mid to high 70s.
Also, as part of tournament week at the Northern Trust, organizers presented the inaugural Collegiate Showcase to kick off the week on Monday. The Collegiate Showcase featured 14 tour pros and an amateur member of their respected university golf team, plus two amateurs from the same school in a best ball competition. Kevin Chappell and Dave Stockton Jr. represented UCLA and USC, respectfully. “We are excited to launch the Northern Trust Open Collegiate Showcase and are thrilled with the caliber of players who are giving back to their schools by participating,” said Northern Trust Open Executive Director O.D. Vincent.
Also new this year is the introduction of the VIP Green Room that will feature a different food menu each day from a popular Los Angeles eatery. This will also be the best seat in the house for the free concert featuring O.A.R. The VIP Green Room will be sponsored daily by a LA based lifestyle company including Haus of Grey on Sunday. The week’s schedule and tickets can be purchased in advance by visiting www.northerntrustopen.com, where you can find out all you need to know.
