Future of Wegmans LPGA Championship Uncertain
By: Ashley Zilka
Updated: June 10, 2012
Ever since the Wegmans LPGA Championship became a major in 2010, fans have traveled to Rochester from across the globe.
The event's two-year contract expires Sunday. Both those fans, and officials say they're hopeful it will return next June.
The parties involved are not saying much about a new contract.
"You know I really don't know at this point. We have to get into those negotiations to have a little better feel, so to give you an honest answer right now, I would just be speculating," said Jery Stahl, the Tournament Co-Chairman.
But for fans, the idea of no longer having the Wegmans LPGA Championship in Rochester is upsetting.
"I think it would be a real shame for not only the golf enthusiasts in the area but also for the community as well. It would be a real shame," said Bob Hartleben of Rochester.
"I would be devastated because I look forward to this every year, and I think with Kodak going under, the way it's been going under, and I work for Kodak, I hate to see something else be taken from the Rochester area," said Linda Reis of Irondequoit.
In 2010, the tournament itself, Wegmans, the LPGA and Locust Hill Country Club entered into a contract to make the event a major on the LPGA tour. That contract expires Sunday. Since then, the tournament has made nearly 17 million dollars each year.
"They have been great. Once you have a major, everybody wants to play a major. A player's career is noted by how many major championships they win, so you are guaranteed the very best field you can have, and that's happened the past three years," said Stahl.
Stahl says on average, 100,000 people attend the Locust Hill event each year. This year, he expects an even larger turnout.
For some fans, the Wegmans LPGA has become a Rochester tradition; an event that they would never miss.
"Probably since it started. We are going back quite a few years. In fact, I can't even remember the number to be frank with you, but it's going back well past 30 years," said Hartleben.
"Very big. I go from Monday through Sunday," said Reis.
For now, it's a waiting game for fans. The fate of the Wegmans LPGA Championship is up to the four parties involved.
"We would feel bad about it. I mean there's no question. It's a nice thing for the community and it would be a shame to have that go away, so we will try hard to keep it here," said Stahl.
Stahl says there will be a four week break after the event. Negotiations will begin in July.
