Fans' guide to a month of golf heaven

The grass may not be greener at a golf tournament than it is at other sporting events, but there sure is a lot more of it.

Acres of it are ready to be wandered. Attending a big golf tournament is unlike going to any other sports event, and three will be played in the Seattle area over the next month, beginning with the U.S. Senior Open at Sahalee Country Club in Sammamish. That event begins Thursday.

In the last week of August, the Boeing Classic will be played at the TPC at Snoqualmie and the U.S. Amateur at Chambers Bay in University Place and The Home Course in DuPont.

"Going to a tournament can seem pretty intimidating to someone who has never been to one before, but it's actually pretty easy when you get here," said Michelle DeLancy, tournament director of the Boeing Classic.

Don't worry if you haven't been before. We'll try to answer all of your questions here.

What's the best way to watch? There is no right or wrong answer. Following your favorite player for 18 holes lets you see the entire course while not missing a shot. It's also a great way to burn calories.

Finding a nice spot on the grass or in the bleachers at a particular hole allows you to see all the golfers, if you stay long enough. You can compromise by following your favorite player for a while.

There are holes at each event that are great places to hunker down. Mike Zinga, tournament director for the U.S. Senior Open, recommends Nos. 8 and 9 on Sahalee's front nine, and Nos. 17 and 18 on the back.

At the TPC at Snoqualmie Ridge, home of the Boeing Classic, No. 14 is a par-4 over a canyon where players can reach the green with their drives if they're feeling confident. No. 9 is a par-3 over water that is very tough when the wind is blowing.

Matt Allen, general manager of Chambers Bay, the primary course of the U.S. Amateur, said, "There are a million opinions on which hole is the best spot here." He suggests sitting off the par-3 15th, allowing for views of other holes as well.

Unlike the Senior Open and Boeing Classic, fairways at the U.S. Amateur are not roped off. There are no marshals in the early rounds and fans can get as close as common sense dictates.

"You can literally get close enough to hear the communication between the caddie and the player," Allen said.

How big a deal are these events? The U.S. Senior Open is one of five major championships for players 50 and older, drawing the world's top seniors, including all-time greats like Tom Watson. It is arguably the biggest senior event of the year.

The Boeing Classic is a regular Champions Tour event for players 50 and older, and many golfers who compete in the Senior Open will also play in this tournament. Past winners include Tom Kite and Loren Roberts.

The U.S. Amateur is the top amateur event in the nation. It is the country's oldest national championship, dating to 1895. There won't be household names, but there will be plenty of future stars. The list of winners includes Bobby Jones, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.

Is it something for the whole family? Yes. Children get in free to all events. Up to nine kids 17 and under are free at the Senior Open with each paid adult, with the first two rows of grandstand seats reserved for juniors.

If the kids need a break from golf, there are sponsor tents to visit, often with free samples or giveaways.

What's this about golfing etiquette? The biggest thing to remember is to be quiet while a player is getting ready to swing or putt.

Cellphones are not allowed at any time (bags are checked at the Senior Open). Cameras are not allowed during tournament play, but are OK during practice or Pro-Am rounds. Do not bring lawn chairs or folding chairs, but chairs without arms and golf stools are acceptable.

There is no dress code. Bring good walking shoes and wear something comfortable.

When can I get an autograph? Before or after a round. Players typically talk to fans and give autographs after they have finished and recorded their scores.

Another good spot is the practice area and driving range, where players congregate before their rounds.

Zinga suggested that practice-round days are best for getting autographs, because players are more relaxed.

How about food and drinks? You can't bring food or beverages, but there are concessions at all three events, including 10 vendors at Sahalee. Ivar's is one of the Boeing Classic vendors.

"The concessions are fairly priced, so families can have a good time and eat well," Zinga said.

How about parking? Parking is free at the Senior Open and U.S. Amateur, and $5 at the Boeing Classic. Shuttles run from Marymoor Park in Redmond to Sahalee. Shuttles transport fans to the Boeing Classic from a well-marked lot off Snoqualmie Parkway. Primary parking at the U.S. Amateur will be next to the course.

Are the events accessible to the disabled? Yes. All three have designated parking for the disabled. Shuttles are equipped to transport wheelchairs. Mobility scooters are available at the U.S. Senior Open and U.S. Amateur.