Post Na-16 Analysis: "Validation that they're finally offering a major-league course as a foundation for growth."
/That's Richard Oliver's claim after Kevin Na's 16 went viral and brought great publicity to the Valero Open.
For tournament officials, who have long worked to position the Texas Open as a major-league event, it was validation that they're finally offering a major-league course as a foundation for growth.
For Valero Energy Corp., entering the final year of its title sponsorship deal, it was a welcome, unexpected spotlight for its brand — and perhaps a talking point for pending negotiations.
"We thought from the very beginning that this course was designed to test the best players," Tony Piazzi, head of Golf San Antonio, said Saturday of the Greg Norman-designed AT&T Oaks. "I think you're seeing that."
Friday offered another stark example when a brutal north wind raked the 7,435-yard layout, turning holes built specifically to accommodate seasonal south winds into maddening and often unfair challenges.
When the average scores soared to the highest levels against par in three seasons on the PGA Tour, it was a seismic development that officials hope will resonate with players not on site this week.
Uh, yes it will! Not in the way you probably hope.
The message: The Texas Open is no longer being decided on the pitch-and-putt Resort Course at La Cantera. These days, at AT&T Oaks, there just might be pain.
Judging by your comments and based on the tendencies of PGA Tour players to avoid courses that make them look or feel like fools, I'm guessing Oliver's suggestion will not be reinforced by an improved field next year.
Regarding the incredible coverage of Na's 16 (front page NY Times, Sportscenter acknowledging the PGA Tour, Jumbotron screenings at baseball games), this week's SI Confidential has an amusing rundown capped off by a beautiful comebacker from Van Sickle.