“I think I had some fear because I didn’t want to be the guy who messed with tradition.”
/I haven't paid much attention to the LPGA's designation of the Evian Masters as a fifth major other than to read the criticism of some writers who aren't too impressed by the news.
Huggan: Indeed, this is just another nail in the coffin containing the LPGA's credibility. Majors evolve through history; they are not created by committee. And five is such an odd number. Can't we go back to the days when the four were sponsored by Burt Reynolds' old girlfriend, a Japanese car manufacturer, a breakfast cereal and ... I forget the other one. Which just about sums it all up really.
Elling: I suppose it was the cheeky audacity that bugged me the most. See all the smiling faces in front of the room, the commissioner and the CEO types from the title company, all beaming because they had just negotiated the terms of becoming a major. Tours don't decide majors, with contracts and TV rights fees. Players and fans decide. Nice credibility.
But then I saw Randall Mell's chat with Commissioner Mike Whan and it hit home just how much the LPGA hung out the "for sale" sign to give the Evian imaginary major status:
“I remember telling my wife that each of these conversations is giving me momentum, not fear,” Whan said. “I think I had some fear because I didn’t want to be the guy who messed with tradition.”
Whan knew he would get a no-nonsense answer from Suggs, one of the LPGA’s founders.
“Louise said, ‘Hey, Mike, if somebody is going to put you on a grand stage with a big purse and make a big deal of the women’s game, that’s your job,’” Whan said. “I thought that was the best synopsis.”
Lopez also liked the idea.
“Five majors is definitely a plus, I think,” Lopez said. “The TV time, the attention, we need that.”
Why not six? Or seven? Or just designate all remaining events as majors?
And this next bit is just unfathomable but in this economy I'm happy to see an architect cashing a check.
A golf course redesign was on high the list. Evian secured architect Steve Smyers for the $8 million renovation at the LPGA’s recommendation. The LPGA also required securing of financing for network TV coverage. Plus, the tournament dates had to be moved to September.
The course redesigns looms as vital. If The Evian’s going to be a legitimate fifth major, the test has to live up to the billing.“I know Steve Smyers will take it seriously, and hopefully he’ll do a good job,” Daniel said. “I totally understand Franck and Jacques wanted this to be a fifth major, and now they understand they have to make changes to the golf course, and they’re willing to do it.”
Unless Smyers builds 18 island greens, it's hard to see the needle moving on this one.
