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TPC Scottsdale adds seating, encloses 16th hole
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Phil Mickelson tees off on the legendary par-3 16th green during the final round of the FBR Open at the Tournament Players Club Sunday, Feb. 6, 2005 in Scottsdale.
As if No. 16 at TPC Scottsdale didn't have enough charm during the FBR Open, it's getting a makeover.
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The rabble-rousing hole will become what is believed to be the first completely enclosed "stadium" golf hole at this year's tournament, which runs from Jan. 26 through Feb. 1.
The Thunderbirds, who host the tournament, will add 3,000 general admission bleacher seats behind and to the right of the 16th green. These additions to the 152-yard, par-3 hole accompany the bleachers and skyboxes behind the tee box and down the left and right sides of the hole.
"As tournament hosts and organizers, we know we have something pretty special and unique here in our 16th hole," FBR Open tournament chairman John Felix said. "There are certain holes on tour that are identified simply by their number. When you say 17, you know people are talking about the island green at TPC Sawgrass. When you say 16, you know it's the FBR Open and the TPC Scottsdale."
The new bleacher seats are open to spectators on a first-come, first-served basis, similar to the hillside viewing in previous years.
With the hole completely enclosed, the 16th will accommodate between 15,000-20,000 fans.
In addition, the golf course will set up a tunnel beneath the new seats on No. 16 that will connect to the 17th tee box for the golfers to walk through. There will also be 51-foot by 19-foot video board set up behind the 16th tee for fan viewing.
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