Exciting Changes Coming to W.R. Jackson for PDGA Champions Cup

The wait is almost over for the 2023 PDGA Champions Cup presented by Bushnell, as several exciting changes are being made to The W.R. Jackson Memorial Course in preparation for this year's event. These modifications aim to enhance both player performance and the overall fan experience for those attending the tournament and watching from home.

A key change will be the new finishing hole layout on 18, which will see the green shifted out into the open field behind the International Disc Golf Center clubhouse for both MPO and FPO fields. This move not only increases the difficulty of the final hole but also provides a thrilling grandstand finish for spectators to enjoy.

Will Schusterick, three-time PDGA Major winner and course designer, was consulted on these changes and is enthusiastic about their potential impact. "I think you get a lot more anticipation for that final hole when there's more challenge and more risk of potentially having that stroke swing on hole 18," he explained. "I'm very excited to see the change on hole 18 bring in more of a risk/reward factor and bring in a bit more drama towards the end of the round."

The increased visibility of the final hole will allow thousands of spectators to witness the action up close, creating an electric atmosphere at the tournament. Schusterick also emphasized the importance of providing a better experience for fans: "I think the best thing about the change is that people will be able to watch. That's a major thing nowadays with the spectators at each tournament."

In addition to the changes on 18, hole 14 will see its tee shot relocated in line with the FPO pad, maintaining an extended tunnel shot similar to the existing drive while alleviating congestion behind hole one and the 18th green.

Schusterick believes this change still aligns with the overall style of W.R. Jackson, as dropping from a par 5 to a par 4 will be more in line with the difficulty players expect from an elite course. "You're lowering from five to four, so they still need to attack and have a really good tee shot, and that's the risk on that hole," he said.

To further enhance the spectator experience, holes 6, 11, and 13 will feature FPO pin placements, making the par threes more accessible for players after very few birdies were scored in 2022. The new layout of these holes is expected to lead to more exciting play and a better viewing experience for fans.

The changes made to W.R. Jackson are set to elevate the 2023 PDGA Champions Cup presented by Bushnell, offering an improved experience for players and spectators alike. With nearly twice as many spectators anticipated this year, the event is shaping up to be one not to miss.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/grandstand-finish