Transitions Golf Championship

Tee Time

Whether you're an occasional hacker with a wicked slice or a weekend warrior with a low handicap, there's nothing more exciting than watching the pros play. March 15-18, 2012, you'll have that opportunity as the PGA TOUR's Transitions Championship comes to the St. Pete-Clearwater area.

The tournament takes place at the renowned Copperhead Course at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in Palm Harbor. According to a recent Golf Digest survey, the Copperhead Course was ranked as the highest course in Florida. This full-fledged FedEx Cup event promises an exciting field for 2012. The tournament includes 144 PGA TOUR golfers and will benefit many local area charities.

In contention for the 2012 Transitions Championship's $5.9 million purse is an impressive lineup including two of the hottest players in the world - Luke Donald, second-ranked in the Official World Golf Ranking, and Justin Rose, who just clinched the Cadillac Championship in Miami on Sunday. Gary Woodland captured his first PGA victory at the 2011 event. And as defending Champion he will also be battling other golf greats including past Transitions Championship winners, Jim Furyk (2010), Retief Goosen (2009 & 2003), Sean O'Hair (2008), Carl Pettersson (2005) and K.J. Choi, who won twice on the Copperhead Course - in 2002 and 2006.

Tournament play begins Thursday, March 15, when the sport's most skilled competitors will attempt to conquer the challenging course, including its daunting 'Snake Pit' - the name given to the 16th, 17th and 18th holes, which rank among the hardest set of finishing holes on any PGA Tour course. Friday's 2nd Round and Saturday's 3rd Round will set the stage for what is sure to be an exciting Final Round on Sunday.

Play Like a Pro!

What golfer hasn't dreamed of playing a course that has tested the world's best? In conjunction with the Transitions Championship, the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club has created a way to fulfill that fantasy. The Monday After Challenge enables you to play the Copperhead with Sunday pin placements, lightning fast greens and gallery ropes – just like the last day of the championship. Plus, you'll be a VIP at Innisbrook's hospitality tent, play the famous Island course and enjoy special food and beverage events.

Local Golf

Long known as an ideal spot for golf, the St. Pete-Clearwater area offers 40+ area courses. Whether you prefer rolling hills or waterside views, challenge yourself to championship golf at one of the many area courses. For a list of area golf courses please visit VisitStPeteClearwater.com/listings/golf-courses

Beach Time and other Diversions

When you're not following play from the gallery, you can follow the gentle waves along 35 miles of pristine award-winning beaches, which are spectacular in St. Pete-Clearwater. Fort De Soto park, named the nation's best family beach by Parents magazine in June 2011, is a great spot to bring the kids. Another favorite is Clearwater Beach, often referred to as the best 'activity beach' on the Gulf of Mexico.

Ready for a change from the beach and golf? Then, expand your mind and stretch your imagination at the world renowned Dali Museum, located in an architecturally stunning new building. While in downtown St. Pete, also visit the Museum of Fine Arts, Chihuly Collection - Morean Arts Center and other world-class cultural venues and attractions the area has to offer.

For more information ...

about the Transitions Championship, including tickets and a schedule of events, please visit www.TransitionsChampionship.com.