VERONA, ONEIDA COUNTY -- It takes the director and staff of the Turning Stone Resort Championship about a year to prepare for the week long event, but this year they only had ten months. Previously, the event was held in the fall, but this year it was moved up to take advantage of the warm August weather - something both PGA pros and fans approved of.
On Monday, the golfers were able to play practice rounds on the Atunyote course or put in some time on the driving range. Many of them had played the course previously, but that was in fall temperatures and conditions. The Tournament Director said summer course preparation is very different from the work done previously in the fall.
"Obviously with the fall it's a little different when it's a little wetter, more moist conditions. There was a chance of frost in the mornings we don't really have that this year," said Tournament Director Ann Spencer
This year the course needed more water and sprinklers were turned on late Monday afternoon. The warm weather had some fans thrilled that they could dress in shorts in t-shirts when they come out to see their favorite golfers.
"I had layers on last year. It was awful. I still came but the weather was awful," said Jeff Corigliano.
Rich Barcelo was at Atunyote in 2007 to compete for the Championship and he said the schedule switch is a big hit with the pros.
"It's always better to play golf when it's warmer than when it's colder and I think everyone here is going to enjoy this week," said Barcelo. "It's going to be nice to not have to wear beanies, rain suits and turtlenecks."
Several pros have described the Turning Stone Resort Championship as a relaxed fun atmosphere - and fans say the open practice days are a chance for them to share in that fun.
"Being able to watch them practice and all that - you really get an intimate level, you really don't get a chance to see. I figure if I watch enough, maybe I pick up something," said Lawrence Larrabee as he watched the driving range.
Tuesday is another open practice day and on Wednesday, fans can see some Buffalo Bills greats on the course as part of a pro-am tournament. The first round of the Championship starts Thursday morning.
