LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — Bryan Megee has been a championship director for the United States Golf Association for about a decade. It didn't take him long to realize that a U.S. Women's Open in Lancaster County is different than the rest.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been in a community that supports and embraces the Women’s Open quite like this one," Megee said.
The 2015 U.S. Women's Open at Lancaster Country Club is going to be a tough act to follow. Over 135,000 fans attended the tournament, setting the record for a women's open.
The 2024 event will attempt to match and exceed the standard set nine years ago.
It starts with construction in mid-March.
“We come in and we build a little city here, whether it be from a food and beverage perspective, hospitality tents, all of that starts here in the next few weeks," explained USGA Director of Communications Julia Pine.
Some changes will be evident this time around. The course is a little different, less trees on the property will make for a better spectator experience. Fans will be able to watch the action on multiple holes at the same time.
Additionally, the purse has tripled since the '15 tournament, soaring from four million to $12 million. According to Pine, it's part of a change in perception for women's sports in general.
“I think it’s pretty clear to everyone paying attention that women’s sports is having a moment. There are more eyes on women’s golf, there’s more sponsorship money behind women’s sports and it feels bigger. Whether it be our broadcast hours, whether it be media attention, whether it be fan engagement, it all just feels bigger," said Pine. "It’s truly become an event that resonates on a national and international stage and obviously, Lancaster as a community is going to reap the benefits being in that kind of spotlight.”
Megee understands the goal is to meet and exceed expectations. He's confident the course and the community will be ready for tournament week May 28 through June 2.
“This is going to be the biggest show in town and we want to make sure we’re prepared for it and we’re ready to open the gates to everyone," he told FOX43.