Q & A with Quail Hollow Championship's Tournament Director Kym Hougham

In anticipation of next week's PGA Tour stop, the Quail Hollow Championship, we briefly caught up with Tournament Director, Kym Hougham. A favorite stop on the PGA Tour by the Players and fans alike, this year's event will deliver the same world class venue and competition that we have come to expect.

PM: The Quail Hollow Championship is known as one of the best PGA Tour stops....Southern Hospitality at its best! What sort of behind the scenes efforts go on all year long in preparation?
KH: Constant refinement along with information gathered by our surveys to our ticketholders helps us to keep improving our product.

PM: The TW effect -- what does that mean for the tournament and ticket sales?
KH: As you can imagine, when the #1 player in the World commits there is a tremendous interest. It has created a positive impact on ticket sales.

PM: What are the best spots on the golf course to watch shots?
KH: 7 green, 5 green, 8 green, any of our covered seating and the public bleachers on the 18th green.

PM: Wow - another strong field for this year's event! The 2010 Masters Champion, Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods.
KH: We are fortunate that both Players enjoy our golf course and our Tournament. We understand how lucky we are that this is the case.

PM: Since the inauguration of the event in 2003, the Championship has raised over $9.4 million for charity, becoming one of the most prestigious sporting events in the Charlotte region, and has been recognized as one of the top events on the PGA Tour. Can you share any numbers or give a guesstimate of what this year's event will bring?
KH: No idea...

Thanks to Kym Hougham for taking time out to speak with us! We look forward to an exciting 2010 Quail Hollow Championship. Stay tuned for updates throughout next week's Championship.