While parents over on the Arnold Palmer Invitational are looking for a favourite now that Tiger's out with a awful back, things are appreciably more upbeat out in Phoenix.
Back in 2011 when that tournament debuted as the RR Donnelley LPGA Founders Cup, a 3-round event with an "imaginary" handbag that counted on player's cash totals but now not of their bank accounts -- all the proceeds went to charity -- many human beings laughed at "Whan's Folly." Now, with a $1,500,000 purse, 4 complete rounds, and a new sponsor (satirically, a South Korean broadcaster that turned into additionally launched in 2011), the JTBC Founders Cup is at the map.
And check this out: Not only is it the primary American event of the yr however, in keeping with Tony Jesselli's preview, it boasts the most powerful subject of 2014 to date. Not horrific for a terrible business selection, eh?
It might be thrilling to look how Paula Creamer does this week. (The photograph is from Brad Guice's images web site -- together with a completely surprising portfolio of movers and shakers in sports, TV, and many others. Check it out!) Paula is coming off her victory at the HSBC Women's Champions, her first victory for the reason that 2010 US Womens Open. The ABC News website posted this text approximately Paula and the Founders Cup, noting that the HSBC winner has followed that with a win on the Founders Cup in both 2011 (Karrie Webb) and 2013 (Stacy Lewis).
GC's coverage starts today at 6:30pm ET.
In a somewhat-related note, I'd also like to refer you to the Constructivist's post about the Kraft Nabisco Championship losing its sponsor after this April. (You can also read more details at this Golfweek article from last week.) Nevertheless, Mike Whan says the first major of the year will remain at Dinah's Place.
At least, this is his intent. He's verified his potential to create some thing out of not anything, but I'm not retaining my breath that he can get this executed in time for subsequent yr's event.
As I have written several times earlier than, I concept Whan made the Evian a major due to the fact he saw this coming. At the very least, he has ensured that there could be four girls's majors in 2015 although no sponsor can be observed for the Dinah. (I consider TC that they must officially move back to calling it the Dinah.)
That's TWO "silly" actions Mike Whan has made that have validated to be extremely farsighted. It'll be exciting to peer what he does subsequent.
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