(WUSA 9) - He's back!
Tiger Woods returns to competition at the Quicken Loans National for the first time since 2015. It's his first time competing in Montgomery County since the 2014 tournament.
The buzz for Tiger's return is noticeable.
"The fan's are excited, I know Tiger's excited to tee it up and get things going," says Quicken Loans National Tournament Director Mike Antolini in an interview with WUSA 9's Frank Hanrahan. "We are sold out of our Trophy Club, but we do still have limited availability at our Capital Club, and our Independence Pavilion. Everyone wants to see Tiger, Rickie [Fowler], and the rest of the competitors of the Quicken Loans National."
While Tiger might be the biggest draw, the biggest focus continues to be honoring the military.
"Honoring the military during the Quicken Loans National is a cornerstone pillar of the tournament," says Antolini. "We use the week, and whether it's through our official military partner Lockheed Martin who gives out 30,000 complimentary tickets to military members and their families, or we have our military tribute wall that everyone who steps foot inside the gates is encouraged to leave a message of encouragement."
With Quicken Loans back as the title sponsor, the shot for heroes returns. If someone hits a hole-in-one, that person wins $15,000.
"I don't know of if there's another professional sporting event where you can come in, watch the world's best including Tiger Woods and Rickie Fowler inside the ropes, take a few swings outside the ropes, and potentially go home a winner," says Antolini.
While cell phones need to be silenced, capturing and sharing of footage on social media is not only allowed, it's encouraged.
"The PGA Tour has really relaxed its cell phone policy," says Antolini. "We encourage sharing throughout the week, you never know what you're going to see."
The week really gets started for the public on Wednesday with the Pro-Am. Tiger Woods will tee-off early Wednesday morning, with gates opening at 6:30am.
Round one starts Thursday at approximately 7:15 am. Gates will open at 7:00am.
