SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — Tiger Woods has fueled suspense at the U.S. Open that begins Thursday, and it has nothing to do with his quest to win a major championship for the first time 10 years.
Rather, Woods raised the possibility that a player might miss his tee time because of heavy traffic around Shinnecock Hills Golf Club.
A few players said it had taken them 2 1/3 to 3 hours to get from the designated players’ hotel to the golf course, according to Woods.
“…there’s a good chance that someone might miss their (tee) time,’’ Woods said Tuesday. “You get a little traffic, you get maybe a little fender bender, it’s not inconceivable someone could miss their time.’’
That possibility has not escaped the United States Golf Association (USGA), which runs the tournament. Craig Annis, head of communications for the USGA, said the organization is working with local authorities to mitigate the potential problem.
Traffic is heaviest during the so-called “Trade Parade,’’ between approximately 5:30 a.m. and 8 a.m., when a fleet of workers drive in from New York City and the surrounding area.
Annis noted that most of the golfers are staying in private homes within the immediate vicinity of the golf course and are in regular communication with the golfers staying at the designated players’ hotel.
Woods is staying on his 155-foot yacht at Sag Harbor Yacht Club, about a 15-mile drive from the course.
Pointing out the U.S. Open has been held here before — in 2004, 1995, 1986 and 1895 — Annis said the USGA has managed traffic issues in the past and is working to do so again.
“We’ve planned for it,’’ he said. “We’re doing all that we can.’’
Fans are being encouraged to use the Long Island Rail Road, which has a temporary stop at the golf course, Annis said.
