The odds of the U.S. Open being contested in New York amid the coronavirus crisis seemed like a long shot back in April, even after the major championship was moved from June to September.
But the United States Golf Association is now hopeful about preserving the event at Winged Foot Golf Club in suburban New York City and remains encouraged that spectators – even in some limited capacity will be able to attend.
According to ESPN’s Bob Harig, the organization had been working on contingency arrangements to shift the tournament to another course, if necessary.
“We are focused singularly on Winged Foot,” John Bodenhamer, senior managing director of championships for the USGA, said in a phone interview Friday.
“Once we got the September dates, that was our thinking. Time is on our side. We did look at multiple scenarios, but given the recent news we felt we could focus there.
“Winged Foot is a special place for us. And the golf course will be amazing. And to be able to do this in New York, where things have been so challenging, will put an explanation point on it. We see Winged Foot as our sole focus.”
Winged Foot is located in Mamaroneck, New York, which is in Westchester County, one of the country’s COVID-19 hotspots.
Read more at ESPN.com
