There's no reason to skip John Deere Classic now

A direct flight from Chicago to San Francisco? No problem.

How about New York to Dallas? Can do.

OK, the Quad Cities to Manchester, England?

What?

It'll be coming soon to a golf tournament near you.

In its continuing effort to improve the quality of its field, the John Deere Classic will offer eligible contestants a direct flight on a charter jet from Moline to the British Open following next year's event.

The 65-passenger first-class jet would leave Quad City International Airport a few hours after the conclusion of the John Deere and fly directly to Manchester. There, ground transportation would take the players and their caddies to Royal Birkdale in Lancashire, site of the 2008 Open Championship.

"Our goal is to give British Open-eligible players another great reason to play in our tournament," said Clair Peterson, John Deere tournament director. "Based on conversations we've had with players and agents, we think the convenience, security, and hassle-free nature of a charter jet will provide great incentive for players to include the John Deere Classic in their schedules."

Last year, two PGA Tour events -- the Canadian Open and The Travelers -- successfully introduced charter jet travel to bring players to their events. Both plan to use charters again this year.

The 2008 John Deere Classic is scheduled for July 10-13 at the TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Ill. The British Open is July 17-20.