Viking Classic gets Promoted... Sort of

[pittpanther]

The Viking used to be a part of the fall series, mostly made up of guys scrambling to earn enough to keep their tour card. As a volunteer I just received info that the 2011 Viking will be in July, and will give points to the FedEx Cup.

I said "sort of promoted," because of two reasons - now the Viking will be opposite the British Open, and it will only provide half the normal number of points to the FedEx Cup.

But all in all a good step I think for a tourney in the deep south. July in Jackson, MS - bring your sunscreen, shades, and shorts!

[Shorty]

I would sort of see that as a demotion.
Who watches the events that people who haven't qualified for a major are playing in, being played at the same time?
Also, the Fall Series events are exciting because the guys have so much riding on their results.

[pittpanther]

I would sort of see that as a demotion.

Way to be a buzzkill...

Considering the 2010 Viking wasn't on live TV, and did not contribute points to FedEx Cup, and was opposite the Ryder Cup, I think the general opinion is that a move to the main season is an upgrade. I would expect a larger set of "stars" in July than I would late October. Plus live TV.

[MSDOGS1976]

One thing for sure, you will get a better turn out of fans in July. The tournament used to be(maybe for a short time) the same week as the British Open. I attended back then when that was the case and the crowds were great. Not so much in the fall when people were going to football games or hunting.

Going to be a hot time of the year though. I'm glad they ditched the bent grass greens. Just too hard to maintain in the deep south.