Firecracker Open Creates Memories

What is it about the Firecracker Open that makes it such a memorable event and so popular? 

Is it the golf course?   Some people would argue that Muny is a great course for a tournament because of the scoring potential of the course and the ability to move up and down the leaderboard with lots of birdie opportunities as well as the possibility of disaster.   The closing stretch of holes,  that includes "Hogan's hole (#16), a difficult par three in #17, and a distinct birdie opportunity in #18 do provide opportunity for drama.  Others would argue that the course is not really that good because of the difficult to putt greens with all their slope and grain.  And, they would complain about the five hour plus rounds that sometimes occur. 

Some would say the Firecracker is a great tournament because of the sense of community that the tournament provides.  Golfers renew friendships with buddies that have moved from the area and return to play in the Firecracker.  Trey Schroder, Mark McEntire, David Kite have all made return trips to Austin for the Firecracker and to see family and friends.  Girlfriends, wives, and parents of players would say it is a great opportunity to watch their boyfriends, husbands and sons play golf while visiting with other parents, wives and friends they bump into. 

Others might say the Firecracker is a great tournament because of the tradition.  It's been going on since 1929 and the trophy contains the names of Austin's prominent players.  Puett, Luce, Connally, Willie, Clagett, Noonan, Cooper, and Ormand just to mention a few.   Those scoreboard watchers that hand around the hot dog grill and the cold drink area would say it's just a great time.  What can be better than playing golf, talking golf, watching golf, while eating hot dogs, drinking cold water or a cold beer? 

The players might tell you that it's about getting their name on the Trophy.  A win at the Firecracker means instant credibility amoung your golfing peers.

One thing for sure, Firecracker Open will create memories for those participate and especially for those fortunate enough to win or be in contention.  The evidence of those kinds of memories are plastered on the Lions Municipal hallway wall as reminders of the events that took place at the Firecracker.  Ask any of the participants who witnessed the drama unfolding and they will tell you those memories are precious as well as alive and well in their golfing brain.  

Posted below are the tee times for the first round of the 2011 Firecracker Open