The Memorial next month is set to become the "first PGA Tour event to be played with spectators since the coronavirus pandemic shut down most American sports," as a "maximum of about 8,000 spectators will be permitted on the 18-hole course at any one time," according to Rob Oller of the COLUMBUS DISPATCH. However, the "dozens of safety protocals ... will test how badly fans want to show up to watch professional golf in person, and how long they remain on site." Each hole at Muirfield Village "will include designated sitting or standing corrals, through which a predetermined number of spectators will be permitted." Nonsurgical masks will be "required upon entry for all attendees, with exempted exceptions recognized." Additionally, temperature readings will be held "at all entrances and to all those on the property." The Memorial "typically does not release crowd figures, but the 8,000 entrants represents about 20% of maximum capacity." It remains to be seen how "placing restrictions on spectators will impact both interest in attending and attitude toward what transpires on the course" (COLUMBUS DISPATCH, 6/7).
