The USGA and PGA Championship venues as 90s and 00s bands
The USGA has been busy scheduling courses for the U.S. Open, securing venues like Oakmont, Pebble Beach, and Pinehurst No. 2 well into the 2050s. Meanwhile, the PGA Championship has announced sites only until 2035, but it's developing its own loose rota of courses that could host a U.S. Open but won't anytime soon. This article compares each course to a 90s and 00s band, offering a unique perspective on the emerging PGA Championship rota.
Quail Hollow (2017, 2025) - Coldplay
Coldplay is a popular band, and their album 'A Rush of Blood to the Head' is a classic. However, their music doesn't demand attention, and it's just 'nice'. It's a bit like Quail Hollow - a course that can host a major but isn't necessarily a top-tier venue.
Aronimink (2026) - Weezer
Weezer's early albums are iconic, but they've struggled to recapture their magic in a changing game. Similarly, Aronimink is a classic course that might not be the most exciting, but it's still a solid choice for the PGA Championship.
The Olympic Club (2028) - Foo Fighters
Foo Fighters are experts in their genre, delivering consistent, chugging rockers. The Olympic Club is a bit like that - a reliable venue that can host a major, but it might not be the most exciting choice.
PGA Frisco (2027) - O-Town
O-Town was a corporate venture that didn't quite hit the mark, despite its financial backing and talent. PGA Frisco is a similar story - a course that can host a major, but it might not be the most memorable.
The Ocean Course at Kiawah (2012, 2021, 2031) - Green Day
Green Day's music is relatable and enjoyable, and their album 'Dookie' is a 90s classic. The Ocean Course at Kiawah is a bit like that - a solid, reliable venue that can host a major, and it's a good choice for the PGA Championship.
Whistling Straits (2010, 2015) - Blink-182
Blink-182 is a talented band, but they're not as iconic as Green Day. Whistling Straits is a similar story - a great course that can host a major, but it might not be the most memorable choice.
Southern Hills (2022, 2032) - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Tom Petty's music is well-crafted and timeless. Southern Hills is a bit like that - a classic course that can host a major, and it's a strong choice for the PGA Championship.
Bethpage Black (2019, 2033) - Guns N' Roses
Guns N' Roses were a legendary rock band, but their live performances have become questionable. Bethpage Black is a bit like that - a classic course that can host a major, but it might not be the most reliable choice.
Oak Hill East (2013, 2023, 2035) - Oasis
Oasis is a well-loved band, but their music doesn't resonate with me. Oak Hill East is a similar story - a great course that can host a major, but it might not be the most exciting choice.
Congressional Blue (2030) - Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots are a solid band, but their music can be a bit anonymous. Congressional Blue is a bit like that - a classic course that can host a major, but it might not be the most memorable.
Bellerive (2018) - Bush
Bush's music is forgettable, and it's hard to remember any of their songs. Bellerive is a bit like that - a course that can host a major, but it might not be the most exciting choice.
TPC Harding Park (2020) - Dave Matthews Band
Dave Matthews Band is a pleasant listen, but their music isn't essential. TPC Harding Park is a bit like that - a course that can host a major, but it might not be the most memorable.
Baltusrol Lower (2016, 2029) - Metallica
Metallica is a legendary band, but they became a joke in the early 00s. Baltusrol Lower is a bit like that - a classic course that can host a major, but it might not be the most reliable choice.
Valhalla (2014, 2024) - Spin Doctors
Spin Doctors' music is enjoyable, but it's more of a 90s relic. Valhalla is a bit like that - a course that can host a major, but it might not be the most exciting choice.
In conclusion, this article offers a unique perspective on the emerging PGA Championship rota by comparing each course to a 90s and 00s band. While some bands and courses are iconic and memorable, others are more reliable and solid choices. It's a fascinating exercise that highlights the diverse nature of both music and golf venues.
