The USGA and Topgolf launched a competition last week giving players of the World Golf Tour game a chance to compete for an invite to the 2019 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach, Calif. The online competition is called the 2018 Virtual U.S. Open and contestants can win USGA store credit, free membership, and VIP tickets for next year’s real-world tournament.
Through June 30, competitors can play as many rounds as they wish on a composite course of hand-picked holes called the “Dream 18.” Pebble Beach’s oceanside 18th hole is among them. The top 156 qualifiers will then compete in the final tournament that runs until July 16.
“In honor of a decade of unmatched online competition and 28 million Virtual U.S. Open rounds, we are excited to offer fans the chance to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Virtual U.S. Open and compete on a collection of the most storied holes in golf,” said Navin Singh, head of global content and media distribution for the USGA, in a statement.
The tournament is available on Topgolf’s World Golf Tour, which comes in both mobile (iOS and Android) and desktop versions.
Get The Latest Sports Tech News In Your Inbox!
SportTechie Takeaway
Golf might be a sport that seems steeped in tradition, but its digital history goes as far back as Computer Golf! on the Magavox Odyssey video game console. More than a 100 golf games have been released since then, including the long-running PGA Tour series and a golf game within Wii Sports. Topgolf launched in 2006, and now runs dozens of driving ranges around the United States where players can score points for accuracy and distance using microchipped balls. The company acquired the game World Golf Tour, expanding its footprint online.
The reason for the USGA’s participation in this venture seems clear: the organization wants to expand the game of golf and give fans access to some of its most famous courses. The chance to experience courses such as Pebble Beach and Oakmont, even virtually, may boost an appreciation for the sport and bring fans to see those acclaimed links in person.