IVINS, Utah (KUTV) — The Bank of Utah Championship kicked off as part of the PGA Tour.
The tour first came to the Black Desert Resort in 2024 — more than 60 years since its last visit to Utah.
“It’s cool to see these guys you always watch on TV right up next to you,” attendee Connor Steead said.
Tournament director John Coolbaugh said this year has some larger-name players than previous years, such as Max Homa and Jason Day.
“I’m excited to see Jason Day. We’re going to try and catch him on hole 18,” attendee Wyatt Riska said.
Coolbaugh said the resort is also expanding its guest experiences and mobility with things like new paved paths for golf carts.
“We have a new viewing area on the left-hand side of 18 for guests so they can see the finishing hole,” he said. “[There’s] a lot of nice amenities, restaurants, restrooms, and shaded seating areas.
Coolbaugh calls the production a big employer, with hundreds involved from catering companies, access control, construction crews, and resort employees. There are also about 900 volunteers, spanning in age from 13 to 88. While they have to pay about the same price as a general admission ticket for their uniform, volunteer Brad Kramer says it is worth it to get up close and help out.
“They utilize every one of them to make this tournament run well and work well,” Kramer said.
For residents living in Washington County, Coolbaugh said it should not impact surrounding roads. There will be some lots in St. George reserved for parking at Tech Ridge.
Coolbaugh said the course is a beautiful area to walk around and enjoy its amenities, no matter your interest in golf.
“It’s an amazing part of the world, so I’m glad the tournament can showcase that,” he said.
Tickets are still available at bankofutahchampionship.com until the tournament’s end on Sunday.
Children under 16 are free and can enjoy a putting green and an autograph tent.
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