The ANA Inspiration is one of Ladies Professional Golf Association’s (LPGA) most prestigious championship events and was originally due to take place this year in March. As a result of the pandemic, the tournament was postponed until 10-13 September 2020.
The good news is that the LGPA have confirmed the 49th edition of the event will go ahead in September as planned. However, in a blow to fans, no spectators will be permitted to attend this year. The organisers advised that the decision was taken with a heavy heart, but is the only way to ensure the event can go ahead in a safe and robust way.
Mike Whan, LPGA Tour Commissioner, said “We appreciate the friendship of our partners at ANA, who continue to support the LPGA Tour through these unprecedented times. The champion’s walk at 18 and the jump into Poppie’s Pond are two of the greatest traditions on the LPGA Tour. While we wish we could have fans with us in person to celebrate these exciting moments, ensuring the health and safety of everyone inside and outside the ropes is of the utmost importance.”
The competition takes place in Mission Hills Country Club, Rancho Mirage in California; and with the daily Coronavirus infections still at over 8,000 in the state, the LPGA would have been very conscious about further exacerbating the situation.
To help those missing out, the tournament will be broadcast live on the Golf Channel and Sky Sports, and enhanced social media content will be posted on @ANAinspiration. So, just because you can’t be there in-person this year, doesn’t mean you can’t don your best golf visor and polo-shirt, crank up the barbecue and enjoy the ANA Inspiration from the comfort of your home. Maybe involve your neighbours with a friendly holler of “Fore!” at well-timed intervals.
The 2021 ANA Inspiration intends to return in March with a special 50th anniversary celebration edition and a venue packed full of spectators.