This year the U.S. Open Championship will be held at Chambers Bay, a public 18-hole golf course located in University Place, Washington from June 15-21. For the first time ever spectators are allowed to use their cell phones at the Championship, as long as there is no photography.
With the ability for golf enthusiasts to use cell phones and the release of their updated mobile and tablet app, the U.S. Golf Association (USGA) is making an effort to connect with a more digital audience.
“The USGA has committed significant resources toward technology organization-wide,” said Thomas J. O’Toole Jr., USGA president in a press release. “The focus on data not only supports our commitment to conduct an exemplary championship, but also makes it fun to watch, no matter where you are.”
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New improvements to the digital experience this year include laser equipment owned by USGA to track and collect ball position on fairways and greens. The data collected will be sent to 12 electronic scoreboards strategically placed around the golf course and a “monster” board at the 18th hole. Throughout the day, fans will have the opportunity to watch highlights and keep up with scores of multiple golfers from viewing the scoreboards around the course or from their mobile app. This year’s edition of the mobile app will include live scoring, player statistics, photos and videos, and a virtual simulation of the golf course. The updated app can be used by fans “Inside-the–Gates” of Chambers Bay or “Outside-the-Gates.”
“Inside-the -Gates” users can utilize a navigation feature while on the grounds of the championship site. With this new feature spectators are able to use an interactive map to locate the nearest concession stand, merchandise, restroom, and even locate their favorite player and the hole they are currently playing on. For “Outside- the -Gates” users they will have the ability to view the U.S. Open Championship from three channels of live streaming from their phone or tablet. One of the live streaming channels this year will include for the first time a “U.S. Open 360” program that will provide users with an exclusive behind the scenes look at golfers throughout the tournament.
And as has been the case for the past seven years with the U.S. Open, IBM will continue to be their technology partner to help power their latest digital and technological initiatives.
“We’re helping bring golf fans around the world closer to the U.S. Open Championship through a combination of innovative technologies designed to showcase the action and excitement on the course,” said Noah Syken, vice president of Global Sponsorships and Client Programs for IBM. “The immersive U.S. Open digital experience, powered by IBM’s Cloud Computing, will enable fans to follow the championship live on the Web or their mobile device and feel as though they are at Chambers Bay watching their favorite player compete.”