AVONDALE, La. (April 22, 2015) – Covering the effects of Hurricane Katrina and the devastating blow it struck to the area’s golf industry in 2005, Golf Channel’s Golf Central this week will mark its 10th consecutive year broadcasting from the PGA TOUR’s Zurich Classic of New Orleans, continuing to follow the story of the tournament’s impact on the community during its recovery and revival.
The Zurich Classic was the first major sporting event in the community post-Katrina. Over the course of the last 10 years, Golf Central has expanded its coverage to not only cover tournament news, but also showcase stories of recovery – the tournament has donated more than $13 million to more than 100 charities in the greater New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas. This week Golf Central will air wrap around tournament coverage, with both pre-game and primetime shows, featuring Kelly Tilghman, Brandel Chamblee and David Duval anchoring the coverage. Steve Burkowski also will be reporting on site.
Golf Channel expanded its coverage in 2012 with reports and features on its popular news and lifestyle show, Morning Drive, which also incorporated more New Orleans flavor, showcasing interviews with notable personalities and golfers connected to the city. Some of the individuals who have joined Golf Channel personalities on site have included chef Emeril Lagasse, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, NFL greats Peyton Manning and his brother Eli, as well as their father and former Saints quarterback Archie Manning; NBA star point guard Chris Paul; and former First Lady Laura Bush. This week, Morning Drive co-hosts Charlie Rymer and Matt Ginella are reporting on site, along with Jim Gallagher Jr., who also will serve as a tower analyst during Golf Channel’s live tournament telecasts this week.
Golf Central Air Times from the Zurich Classic of New Orleans (all times ET):
Thursday, April 23 2-3 p.m.
9-9:30 p.m.
Friday, April 24 2:30-3 p.m.
9-9:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26 Noon-1 p.m.
2:30-3 p.m.
9-10 p.m.
Morning Drive Air Times:
Thursday, April 23 & Friday, April 24 7-9 a.m.
Friday, April 24 – Sunday, April 26 10 a.m.-Noon
Zurich Classic of New Orleans Tournament Air Times:
Thursday, April 23 & Friday, April 24 3-6 p.m.
Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26 1-2:30 p.m.
Contact:
Jeff Szklinski
Golf Channel Communications
Jeff.Szklinski@golfchannel.com
407-248-3267
