Smooth Start for PGA Championship in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE, NC — Putting on the PGA Championship is a massive undertaking, transforming Quail Hollow Club into a golf Mecca.
Thursday was the moment of truth, with tens of thousands of fans hitting the course for round one. Would all the planning pay off?
The traffic to and from Quail Hollow for the opening round of the 99th PGA ran like a well-oiled machine, with shuttle buses toting fans from across the Charlotte area.
But some are still finding alternate means of transportation. Southeast Charlotte resident John Theobald used some pedal power. We asked how the ride in was.
“Yeah it was easy,” says Theobald. “I think it was all downhill coming in. Hard ride out probably.”
Once fans are on the premises, keeping them healthy and hydrated is always a concern. Carolina Health Systems says more than 230 fans were treated for a variety of issues Thursday, from blisters and scrapes, to heat-related problems. At least six people were transported to the hospital by MEDIC.
Temperatures Thursday were pretty pleasant for early August. The tournament has medical tents and cooling stations spread around the grounds.
South Park resident Ali Black says you just have to know how to pace yourself.
“This is relatively awesome weather for Charlotte this time of year,” says Black. “But the way I’ve been keeping cool is drinking water and staying in the shade.”
Cold water is still a hot commodity, and an entrepreneurial opportunity for neighborhood kids.
Water is going for several dollars a bottle inside the gates. But right across the street, it’s ice cold for a buck!
11-year old Lilly Boukedes lives across from the course, and she’s making the most of the opportunity.
But what will she do with the proceeds?
“I’m not sure,” says Boukedes. “But one thing I want is a hover board.”
I’m told these pop-up neighborhood water stands can make several hundred dollars a day depending on location and the temperature.
Fans can take bottled water into the tournament, as long as it’s unopened.
