New on-site elements at 2016 Championship delivers
exciting viewing experience and brings fans closer to the action
BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (May 12, 2016) – Fans at the 2016 Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid can find food, fun, shopping and more at Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor, Michigan, this Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-29, with new on-course elements from the PGA of America.
From food trucks to new viewing structures, the PGA of America is committed to bringing fans closer to the action to deliver a memorable spectator experience at this Major Championship.
“We’re dedicated to providing the best possible spectator experience for golf fans and local residents that showcases the beauty of Benton Harbor and Southwest Michigan,” said Ryan Ogle, championship director. “Thanks to the help of our community partners and presenting sponsor, KitchenAid, we’re introducing a variety of new elements to this year’s Championship for fans to enjoy.”
In addition to watching the legends of the game compete for the Alfred S. Bourne trophy, fans can explore the following opportunities and attractions at Harbor Shores:
• Community Showcase Tent: New to the Championship this year, the Community Showcase Tent is located at the main entrance. Local volunteers will staff the tent each day, greeting fans and welcoming out of town guests with insider recommendations about places to see and things to do in the area. And, fans can enter a raffle to win prize packages from the local community.
• Merchandise Shop: A new Championship Merchandise Shop has been constructed this year at the main entrance, and built within the Community Showcase Tent. Fans can shop for the latest Championship Merchandise, golf apparel and memorabilia throughout the week to remember their Championship experience at Harbor Shores.
• Food trucks: New this year, the Senior PGA Championship is introducing local cuisines at the food truck concession area located between Holes 7, 8, and 9. Enjoy some of southwest Michigan’s most popular, mouth-watering cuisine from Lark’s Bar-B-Que and Baja Gringo Tacos. Food trucks will be on-site each day of the Championship so fans can stop by and support the community’s local businesses.
• 19th Hole: The 19th Hole ticket is back for the 2016 Championship. Fans can gain access into an upgraded viewing structure on the course, located between the 16th green and 17th tee. This open-air pavilion will feature upgrade seating and televisions, as well as a private bar with beverage options available for purchase.
• 17th Green Bleachers: To bring fans closer to the action, the PGA has constructed a new general admission viewing area behind the 17th green. Fans can get a good look at the finishing par-3 from this location, a popular spot on Championship Sunday.
• Avenue of Flags: The first thing fans will see from the main entrance to the clubhouse is the Avenue of Flags. Nearly 60 flags will line the walking path, each one dedicated to a military member. Proceeds from each flag donation will support Lest We Forget, a non-profit military charity in Benton Harbor.
• Field of Flags: Between holes 7, 8 and 9 in Jean Klock Park, spectators can view the Field of Flags, showcasing more than 200 flags donated by the community to remember those who gave their lives for our country. Flags will be sponsored and dedicated to fallen military members with all proceeds going to Lest We Forget.
Additional information on all of these features and more can be found in the 2016 Senior PGA Championship presented by KitchenAid Spectator Guide.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Tuesday, May 24 Pro-Am and Practice Rounds
Wednesday, May 25 Practice Rounds
Thursday, May 26 – Sunday, May 30 Championship Rounds
GATE HOURS
Tuesday, May 24 – Wednesday, May 25 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Thursday, May 26 – Friday, May 27 6:45 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, May 29 6:15 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sunday, May 30 7:15 a.m. – 8 p.m.
For more information about the 77th Senior PGA Championship, or to buy tickets, visit SrPGA.com or call 1-800-PGA-GOLF (800-742-4653).
For more information about KitchenAid, visit KitchenAid.com, Facebook, or Twitter.
Celebrating its Centennial, the PGA of America represents the very best in golf. For more information about the PGA of America, visit PGA.org, follow @PGAofAmerica on Twitter and find us on Facebook.
Contact:
Audrey Wayne, KemperLesnik: audrey.wayne@kemperlesnik.com or 312.888.2104
