Fans excited about LPGA, react to uncertain tournament future

Posted at: 06/08/2012 8:58 PM | Updated at: 06/08/2012 11:21 PM
By: Amanda Ciavarri | WHEC.com

Organizers don't have a headcount for the fans who have come to watch the Wegmans LPGA Tournament this week, but they say this year's crowd is "on par" with past years.

Those out to watch the ladies are coming from all over.

"This is the third year we've been here, absolutely super. They do a great job with the organization of it.  It's great to see the women players go out there and hit the ball," says Daniel Penfold, who traveled from Buffalo.

While fans are organizers are happy, there are questions about next year. The LPGA's two-year contract with Locust Hill and Wegmans expires Sunday afternoon, and the future of the tournament is up in the air.

"It would be upsetting because it is a tradition in Rochester, and it's set up with the carpooling and stuff. It's just so easy to use and to get here," says Glori Jones, from Brockport.

"It would be a tremendous lost to Western New York and this area, if they lost this," says Penfold.

Some fans, like Chris and Mary Beth Rein of Syracuse, say they'll come cheer on the pros at Locust Hill at any tournament, whether it's a Major or not.

"I'd still come back. It's still the greatest players out here, from the women's ranks.  It's a great venue and great spot," says Chris Rein.

Organizers can't say much about the pending contract negotiations, but did have one thing to say.

"Rochester loves it's golf. It's been here for 36 years, so lets just keep our fingers crossed that everything comes together and we have a 2013," Marketing Manager Kim Osur tells News10NBC.

The third round of the tournament starts Saturday at 7 a.m. with the final round wrapping up on Sunday.

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