ShopRite LPGA will be "fan" less
The good news is that the ShopRite LPGA Classic presented by Acer will take place this year. The bad news is that COVID has forced numerous changes.
There will be no fans allowed at Seaview Golf Club, a Dolce Resort, according to tournament officials. Additionally there will not be a pro-am event Instead the tournament will be extended to 72 holes from its traditional 54 holes, and it will be televised.
Commissioner Mike Whan thanked sponsors shopRite, Acer and Eiger for their support of the event, postponed from earlier this year and now scheduled for September 28 to October 4. "While this year's tournament will be different without on-site fan support, the Golf Channel will be presenting excellent coverage."
The Classic has generated more than $35 million for regional charities and that commitment to the community will continue.
The ShopRIte regularly draws a strong field, and it is expected this year's event will be no different. The players love the course and area amenities and many circle it on their playing schedule.
Lexi Thompson won the 2019 event, while Annie Park was the 2018 winner.
The glass may be half empty or half full, but the competition will be intense this fall when play starts.
CHIP SHOTS: Some LPGA players are carrying or pulling their own bags in efforts to social distance and save a few bucks. That is expected to continue through the end of the year....Neshaminy graduated Brittany Benvenuto hopes to be play in her second ShopRite. She missed the cut two years ago. She recently opened the Marathon LPGA Classic with a 73...Seaview's Bay Course always challenges the players, who love it and the area according to numerous interviews.