What you need to know to attend the U.S. Senior Women's Open in Wheaton
The first U.S. Senior Women's Open will be a hot ticket for even a casual golf fan for two prime reasons.
One, you can see the game played by some of the biggest names in women's golf - Pat Bradley, Juli Inkster, Laura Davies and Jane Geddes, among others.
And two, you can get an insider's view of the members-only Chicago Golf Club, a Wheaton course with deep ties to the development of the sport and a historic venue that hasn't opened its doors to an Open championship since 1911.
Here's what you need to know about admission to the event and parking:
Q. When does play begin?
A. Gates open at 7 a.m. Thursday, with threesomes starting on the 1st and 10th tees. Practice rounds earlier in the week won't be open to the public.
Q. How do I get tickets?
A. Purchase tickets online at USGA.org. One-day admission costs $30. "Two-pack" tickets are $50. That package can be used on the same day for two patrons or on two different days for one. Anyone 18 and under receives free admission on any day when joined by an adult ticket or credential holder. Junior tickets are available on-site at will call.
Q. Where is will call?
A. The main admission gate. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to the conclusion of play. Show a photo ID to pick up your ticket.
Q. What are the ticket perks?
A. Tickets provide access to the Trophy Club, an air-conditioned tent installed between the 15th green and driving range. Fans can buy "upgraded" food and drink and watch television screens. Trophy Club ticketholders, though, won't be able to access the Chicago Golf clubhouse.
Q. What's the televised schedule?
A. Fox Sports 1 (FS1) will broadcast the last two rounds from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Q. Where do I park?
A. The USGA will use DuPage County Fairground lots at 2015 Manchester Road for general parking. Accessible parking spaces will be set aside for patrons with disabilities. Free shuttle buses will run to and from Chicago Golf, beginning at 6:45 a.m. The ride should last about 10 minutes. Fans will get dropped off in front of the clubhouse.
Q. Where can I find championship swag?
A. The merchandise pavilion is in a prominent spot near the main gate. Personal checks won't be accepted at checkout, so bring cash or credit or debit cards. Clothing and hats will bear the U.S. Senior Women's Open Championship logo - featuring the iconic tower that rises above the 105-year-old Chicago Golf clubhouse.