Golfers, fans ready for 3M Open in Blaine

Golfers and fans are ready to hit the links in Blaine for next week’s 3M Open tournament.

The finishing touches are being put on the course and the excitement is building.

"We’re so excited to welcome fans back, to welcome our partners back, excited to welcome the golfers back, we’re just excited," Mike Welch, the tournament director, said.

Last year, the event wasn’t as golfers or fans had hoped, with no crowds allowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But it can get back to normal this year.

"We have fan favorites, Dustin Johnson, No. 1 in the world, Ricky Fowler, Sergio Garcia, folks that have never been to the 3M Open that will experience this for the first time," Welch said.

There are also new air-conditioned seating areas for the public on the back nine, the 3M Science Hub and local food and drink options in the fan experience area.

The tournament is also raising up young Minnesotans at Masonic Children’s Hospital by displaying golf balls with drawings done by patients as a form of therapy and healing. They will serve as a fundraiser for the hospital.

Organizers say the tournament has faced challenges, being over the Fourth of July in 2019, not having spectators last year and being sandwiched between a major golf event and the Olympics this year. But that’s not dampening the mood.

"It is tough but you’re a new tournament, right, and you sort of have to make your mark, and when you get introduced into the PGA schedule, you don’t argue about the placement you are in, you’re just happy to be here," Welch said.

Daily tickets are still available and start at $65. The tournament runs from July 19-25. More information is available online.