Why Not Play The Western Swing?

     The new professional golf season is here and we are right in the middle of the PGA tour's West Coast Swing.  Why aren't the big names out here for the whole swing? We out here in the West would love to see them.
     I remember growing up and watching The Bob Hope Desert Classic, The Crosby, The Andy Williams San Diego Open and the Glen Campbell Los Angeles Open.  These tournaments showcased some of the best courses on the West Coast. Plus, all the big names like Nicklaus, Palmer and Player played these tournaments.  The fields were large and the play was exceptional. Players came out west to enjoy the great courses, the weather, and of course the money. They were all there adding to the prestige and excitement of the events.
     That has all changed, for the most part.  The Bob Hope Desert Classic is now a shell of what it once was, especially on the passing away of Bob Hope and Bing Crosby. It is now The Humana Challenge and has lost much of its luster along with most of the big name golfers of today. It is really a shame. The Crosby has been adopted by AT&T but the field is often sporadic.  Phil has played it often, but Tiger chooses to bypass it most of the time. He doesn't like the pace of play.  That's not the whole idea though, Tiger.  Its a matter of giving back to the fans here on the West Coast who want to see you.
     The Andy Williams San Diego Open is now The Farmer's Insurance San Diego Open.  I am OK with the change in sponsors and it is one of the few West Coast stops that draws a good field.  Tiger plays it because he likes Torrey Pines and Phil plays because he is from San Diego.  By the way, sorry to see you withdraw this week with your back hurting. hope you get better.  Plus, the weather in San Diego is almost always gorgeous this time of year.
     I am not sure that the weather is keeping golfers away.  The weather this time of year out here is fantastic! There have been years that it has been cold and miserable in both San Diego and Monterey, but that doesn't happen very often.  Most of the time it is quite sunny and relatively warm. I remember going to The AT&T and wearing shorts.  I was actually almost hot. Also, what a beautiful venue, even if it is freezing.
     It is exciting seeing new names on the tour.  Besides, there has to be a first time for a new player winning a tournament. I can see that, but I have to ask Who is Russel Knox? New names need to be atop the leader board in order for golf to survive and new superstars need to come forth.  But give us here on the West Coast a break.  We want to see the Tigers and the Phils here in the west.

First tee, Coronado.  this was the first week of January and the temperature was about 75 degrees.

The starter shak at Coronado on that same day. Beautiful and sunny!