U.S. Open fever in Oakmont, the USGA 'toughens up' course, great Father's Day gifts for golfing dads

Hear this latest episode of TravelGolf.com This Week.

The U.S. Open hits Oakmont, Pa., this week, and the town is in something of a frenzy. Podcast host Dave Berner talks to sports reporter Jeff Hathhorn of Pittsburgh’s KDKA radio station about Oakmont’s ardor for the Open.

“They’re so excited. It’s their moment to shine - maybe Tiger Woods will stop into a bakery; maybe Ernie Els will stop by this restaurant,” Hathhorn says. “This community rallies around this event.”

The United States Golf Association (USGA) has a history of ‘toughening up’ U.S. Open host courses. Senior Staff Writer Chris Baldwin says the USGA hasn’t broken with the trend at Oakmont.

“The eighth is going to be the longest par 3 in U.S. Open history at 288 yards. The par-5 12th is going to play to 67 on certain days,” Baldwin says. “There are going to be holes that even the pros are going to be like: ‘That’s ridiculous.’”

Father’s Day is rapidly approaching June 17, so it’s time to start thinking about gifts for golfing dads. TravelGolf.com Equipment Editor Kiel Christianson suggests OGIO’s Monster travel bag.

“It’s absolutely enormous, and it can fit all kinds of stuff,” Christianson says. “There’s plenty of room in the thing, and it seems to be tough as nails, as far as I can tell.”

This podcast is supported by Pioneer Golf and Florida Golf Travel.