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The Tampa Tribune

Published: March 19, 2009

GOLF FANS STARTER KIT

DIRECTIONS TO THE COURSE: Take U.S. 19 or Belcher Road to Klosterman Road and watch for signs to the public parking located at the St. Petersburg College Tarpon Springs campus.

PARKING: Public parking (for spectators who have not purchased a parking pass) is available at the St. Petersburg College campus at the corner of Klosterman and Belcher. A $10 fee per vehicle is required for entrance.

MAP A STRATEGY: A brochure listing each day's player groupings and a course map is available to arriving spectators. Use it to develop a plan. Decide if you want to walk with a group or stake out a spot close to concession stands and restrooms.

BEGINNERS SPECTATING

1. Pick a spot - Either bleacher seats or by staking out your own space - and, depending on how much time you want to spend, watch every player in the field pass through.

2. Pick a favorite player or group and follow along, but plan to walk seven or eight miles if you go all 18 holes.

3. Pick a strategic location that provides visual access to two or three different holes to see a variety of players and shots.

AUTOGRAPH POLICY: Players are permitted to sign autographs only after the completion of their round.

CELL PHONES: No cell phones are allowed into the tournament for any reason.

CONCESSION STANDS: Stands are located throughout the course and serve a variety of food and beverages.

FIRST AID: The Palm Harbor and Tarpon Springs fire departments have teams of paramedics on duty at the tournament. If you need medical assistance, please get the attention of a volunteer.

ITEMS NOT PERMITTED: Use of the following items will not be permitted at the tournament: cell phones, cameras, picnic baskets, coolers, radios, televisions (including hand-held televisions), backpacks, pagers, ladders, signs, banners and lawn chairs. Bags will be searched upon entering the event.

TIPS

•Plan to wear comfortable walking shoes.

•Use sunscreen and wear a hat.

•Walk, don't run.

•Stay behind the gallery ropes.

•Remain silent throughout each shot.

•Do not move until all players in each group have completed their shots. Respect the players and caddies during their round, give them space and do not interrupt them during the round.

•Be aware of weather alerts on the electronic scoreboards.

SPECIAL EVENT: Chair massages and fitness demos from Innisbrook's new spa provided today at pavilion near the 18th green.

WEATHER: When there is potential for threatening weather conditions, a warning symbol will appear on the electronic scoreboards. When this warning appears, spectators are strongly urged to take precautions and seek shelter. If the siren sounds suspending play, seek shelter immediately.

Mick Elliott

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