US Open, 2008

Sorry to be so slow getting this blog written -- I've been here 4 days, but the hotel where I've been staying had really slow internet, so I never could get these pictures to upload. Changed hotels, and it's a world of difference!

I spent a few hours Wednesday at the final day of practice rounds (when they allow us to bring in cameras), and in addition to taking some pictures, I also got a few autographs! Below is a souvenir tee flag, great for getting autographs.

Clockwise from top left: Michelle Wie, Amanda Blumenherst, one we can't remember, and Meg Mallon and Karrie Webb, plus Patty Sheehan in the middle of the logo!

Annika, in the practice rounds. This will be her last U.S. Open, as she has announced her retirement at the end of this season.

Karrie Webb, teeing off.

Meg Mallon, practicing her bunker shot.

Michelle Wie.

Alexis Thompson -- she qualified to play in the U.S. Open last year, as a twelve-year-old -- the youngest to ever qualify!

Patty Sheehan was in the merchandise tent signing autographs, and though I don't know much about her, I know she's in the hall of fame and has done great things for women's golf.

The 18th hole at Interlachen Country Club. The lake at the right was the location of Bobby Jones' famous "lily pad shot" in the 1930 U.S. Open.

A leaderboard like the ones I've been working this week.

It's been a great week -- the weather has mostly cooperated! Thursday went off perfectly, Friday afternoon they had to take the golfers off the course due to lightning and rain for a couple hours. That round was unable to be completed, so they had to start early Saturday morning.

They finished the uncompleted rounds, set the cut, and then began the third round about 9:40 this morning. Just as I got to Interlachen, the horn sounded and they pulled the golfers off again, with lightning in the area. But they started up again in about an hour, and the rest of the day finished normally.

At this point, my two favorites are not in the top 10 -- Lorena Ochoa is tied for 43rd, at +4, while Annika is tied for 3th at -2.

It's Saturday evening now, so tomorrow will be the final round. Weather is forecast to continue to be good, but with a chance of brief showers. I'll be working the leaderboard on the 13th hole, so when the last group plays through there, I'll be able to leave and head for the 18th to see the winner! Can't wait!