After hosting the Waste Management Phoenix Open over many years, the Thunderbirds have developed a few key spectator tips they think will help you enjoy “the greatest show on grass” even more.
The 2015 Waste Management Phoenix Open will be held at TPC Scottsdale from January 26 to February 1, 2015. The Waste Management Phoenix Open is the best-attended golf tournament in the world and has gained legendary status for being the most unique stop on the PGA Tour.
Check The Weather
Check the weather forecast before you visit the Waste Management Phoenix Open and dress appropriately. Expect cool mornings and sunny afternoons, so dressing in layers is the best idea.
Inclement Weather Policy
Spectators will be alerted to weather that tournament officials identify as potentially dangerous. Weather warnings will be broadcast on the electronic leader boards that are located throughout the golf course. Spectators should take appropriate precautions upon observing any weather warnings and avoid hilltops/high places, golf carts, isolated trees and wire fences.
A prolonged blast on an air horn, repeated once, will indicate that tournament play has been suspended, all attendees should seek safe shelter immediately. Two short blast of an air horn, repeated once, will indicate play has resumed.
Must-Have Items
Sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes and binoculars.
Have A Plan
There are basically two ways to watch a golf tournament. “Parade Style” is where you pick a spot and watch the field pass by or “Cross-Country Style” is where you follow a particular player or group around the course.
Arrive Early
Arrive early to reserve a spot, especially if you plan on watching the tournament “Parade Style.” On Thursday and Friday, groups are simultaneously started on the first and tenth holes. Most people watch the action on the back nine holes which may give you the opportunity to get a better view of the players on the front nine.
Daily Pairing Sheet & Map
Pick up a daily pairing sheet to find out when the players tee off and the order of the groups. Pairing sheets include a course map, and are available near the entrances and at selected other locations on the tournament grounds. The pros usually play in threesomes on Thursday and Friday and twosomes on the weekends. Check the scoreboards to find out who the leaders are, and where they are on course. One way to tell the players from a distance is to look for their caddies, who wear color-coded vests (green, white or yellow), which will be indicated on the daily pairing sheet.
Autographs
Players are more receptive to requests for autographs after they have completed their round, so don’t interrupt them before or during their round. A good place to catch them is at the practice area, as most players will return there after they play their round.
Food/Drinks/Souvenirs
Concession stands are located throughout the tournament grounds. For lunch or dinner, visit the Fry’s or Coca-Cola Food Courts. Souvenirs are located at the TPC Merchandise Tents, near the 1st tee and the main entrance.
Who is playing in this year’s Waste Management Phoenix Open?
A list of who is playing in the 2015 Waste Management Phoenix Open will be available in early January and will continually update through tournament week. Check back at WMPhoenixopen.com for the latest information.
How can I find out what time my favorite players tee off?
Daily pairings will be published in the daily newspaper sports sections and will also be posted on the PGATour.com website. Thursday and Friday pairings are determined before the tournament starts, with each golfer playing one day in the morning and the other day in the afternoon. Saturday and Sunday pairings are based on a player’s score, with the leaders teeing off last. Free daily pairing sheets will also be available at the tournament.
What are the best days to see celebrities?
Wednesday of Waste Management Phoenix Open week features the celebrity event. Wednesday, many celebrities and others take part in the annual Annexus Pro-Am, which begins with at 8:30 am.
Will the Waste Management Phoenix Open be broadcast on TV or radio?
Yes, the 2015 Waste Management Phoenix Open will be broadcast nationally on television on The Golf Channel (Thursday and Friday) and CBS (Saturday and Sunday) Click here for broadcast times. In addition, the Waste Management Phoenix Open will also be broadcast on Sirius/XM Satellite Radio (Thursday — Sunday).
Are chairs permitted?
Collapsible chairs, without chair bags are permitted.
Accommodations near the TPC Scottsdale
Click Here for a list of hotels and resorts near TPC Scottsdale.
Transportation Companies
Click Here for a list of Transportation companies in Scottsdale or visit the Scottsdale Convention and Visitors Bureau for a complete list of transportation options.
Bicycle and Motorcycle Parking
Fans riding bicycles to the Waste Management Phoenix Open can park and lock them at the City of Scottsdale pavilion in the park between Lots 3 and 4. Motorcycle riders without a parking pass should park in Lot H or W.
