Watching Women’s Golf
I know it’s trending, and 2024 is all about watching women’s sports and all, but come on y’all, where ya been? Instead of saying we told you so, we’re just going to welcome everyone to the party - better late than never, right? And when it comes to golf, watching the women’s LPGA tour events is like experiencing pure magic. These players possess an other worldly tempo creating a seemingly impossible amount of power and accuracy. Their swings are liquid poetry with a mesmerizing rhythm of clicking the last piece of a puzzle into place, shifting into the perfect gear on a well-oiled bicycle, swinging on a hammock in a warm breeze. Easy, satisfying, connected. You can’t help but start itching for a driving range session yourself, or a crack at a nearby course.
If you get the chance to attend a live golf event this summer, and I highly suggest you do, here are my tips and tricks for the best possible experience:
Be prepared for a long day in the elements. Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and a refillable water bottle (if the Venue allows). Chapstick is a plus, and think through your light layers for any temperature shifts and potential showers.
Your shoes are an important decision - cute sneakers are my go-to. No need for actual golf shoes, but something you can put some miles on around the course is a good idea. If the ground might be wet, don’t wear your shiny new white Nikes.
Your outfit should be equally comfortable when sitting or standing. You may end up sitting on a grassy slope, a tall grandstand, or a high barstool, so you might shy away from short and/or tight. Don’t forget that you might end up in the background on TV, so keep it cute.
I like a cross-body bag for my phone, wallet, etc. This keeps my hands free for taking swing videos of the players and holding a bevvie of choice.
You’ll be checking the leaderboard on your phone, taking photos, texting your friends in the sponsor tent, and looking for next day tee times at your favorite local - your phone WILL run out of batteries, Word to the wise, bring a battery pack back-up.
HOW to watch is a polarizing topic. To follow a group, or to stick to a spot is the age old questions. I prefer posting-up at an interesting green and watching a few key groups pass through. This gives you an opportunity to see several players up close and watch their short game skills - prepare to be dazzled. A tee box or a popular fairway landing zone can also be fun for watching the tempo and power in their full swings - again…dazzled.
Check ahead for any fun auxiliary events - there are often fun activities for kids and you’ll be sorry you didn’t bring your littles for a little golf vibe inspiration. You never know, you might have a future LPGA star in the back seat!
Lastly, if you can find any of those sponsor tent tickets, jump on it! The viewing tents are often in great positions for watching the final hole with comfy seats and hosted refreshments. A great way to end the day.