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See a pro golf tournament!
For golf fans, watching professionals play is another enjoyable aspect of the sport. Japan Golf Tour tournaments are held at Fujizakura Country Club in Yamanashi each year. Also, tournaments of the LPGA of Japan Tour professional golf tour for women are held at Narusawa Golf Club, and thus it is possible to see professionals playing close up at excellent locations.
One of the attractive aspects of golf tournaments is that it is possible to watch the players at a surprisingly close distance compared with other sports events! The true appeal of watching these tournaments is the fact that spectators can stand on the same field with the players, look at the course from the same perspective, and observe first hand the players’ nervousness and swings and so on. When spectators clap after a nice shot, the players will sometimes respond by smiling and waving, and it is a pleasure to see such actions of the players close up. At men’s pro tournaments in particular, spectators will likely be amazed by the high level of skill and long hitting distances, etc. The swing rhythms and tempos of the players can be expected to serve as models for spectators’ own game. Another appealing aspect of these tournaments is the fact that it is possible to follow favorite players around the course, and watch the game in a personally customized manner, which is not possible when watching on television.
In order to fully enjoy these impressive pro tournaments, it is important to observe the rules for spectators. Golf is said to be a game for gentlemen, and as such, spectators should follow the rules and be courteous while rooting for the players.
Attire
As for attire, it is probably good to wear something that is easy to move in, such as general golf clothing and pants, etc. In regard to shoes, athletic shoes that are easy to walk in are recommended. Spiked shoes that make sounds and heels that stick into the turf should be avoided. There is constant exposure to the sun while playing, so players should bring a hat and sunglasses and not forget items such as sunblock and insect repellant. An umbrella for golf is also recommended. In the summer, this prevents sunburn and can also serve as a regular umbrella if it rains, so it is a good idea to have one on hand. Spectators are looking at the players a lot, so it is recommended to also have binoculars and a stepladder with three or four steps.
Precautions
In order to prevent cell phones from interfering with play, they should be turned off or set to silent mode. Players are concentrating deeply not just during the game but also at the practice areas before starting, so asking for a ball or signature is prohibited. This is so that the players can be comfortable as they play the game. At the venues, taking videos and photographs is prohibited, and this includes the use of cell phones to do so. During play, please watch while standing quietly, and do not speak. When a nearby staff member raises a hand or a board with “quiet please” written on it, this means that a player is getting ready to hit a shot. When this happens, please stand still and watch the shot. If it is nice play or nice shot, it is good to applaud. It is also good to look at where the ball went. If a ball has fallen near you or if you find a ball in the woods, etc., please never touch or move it. When crossing the golf course, please use the designated routes called “crossways.”
Entrance tickets
Please check the schedule of the tournament that you would like to see in advance. For pro tournaments, it is necessary to purchase entrance tickets in advance. These are sold through general ticket centers and so on, and the fees differ depending on the tournament. For the Fujisankei Classic, which was held at the Fujizakura Country Club in September 2016, a ticket for full-day viewing on the four days of the qualifying games and finals, including special play privileges, was 8,000 yen. The last day of tournaments is especially popular, so the galleries can be expected to be very crowded.
Playing later on at the same place where professionals have been playing is a fun experience. Also, tournament venues hold additional events such as product exhibitions. Spectators are encouraged to visit these as well.
