Yes, it was a very satisfying tournament and a very deserving champion. For a while, early in the round, it looked like Koepka was going to catch him quick, but what a performance by Woodland! Great nerve.
The action, and the players are a ton, A TON, easier to follow on television and the internet. But being there has its charm and the course becomes the most compelling character! We walked the entire course twice on Thursday and put about twenty miles on our sneakers. I've always thought I'd like to play Pebble Beach but after walking that monster, I'm not so sure. Not only is the track tough, but the scenery and condition of the course is distracting.
Because we were staying about a block from the front gate, we were at the course very early both days. Thus, we were able to watch most of our favorites tee off at least once in relative calm. But by 10 o'clock it was a total cluster fuck. You didn't want to be anywhere near where Tiger was playing. I knew his celebrity transcended the sport but I've never seen it in action before. It was actually a bit scary and disappointing...in a I can't believe I'm the same species kind of way. The FOX coverage just added to the frenzy with the way they would add extra boom cameras and, well...everything, when he came by.
We had a great time and I would definitely go again. We're actually considering the Open Championship at St. Andrews. If I had any advise for potential tournament goers...
1) Stay as close to the venue as you can.
2) Go as early as you can.
3) Spend the extra money for passes to one of the hospitality venues. Go there around 11:00 am. Stay there until around 2:00 pm (you can watch the action from there). Head back out on the course for the remainder of the day.
4) If you want a seat in a prime location bleacher (like #7, #17, and #18 at Pebble) either go early or go late...and never, ever try to get into a bleacher if it is an hour prior to Tiger coming by. [edit] In fact, just after he leaves a hole is a great time to get into the bleacher. [/edit]