Q&A with 3M Open Tournament Director Mike Welch
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The 2020 3M Open is a go July 20-26 at TPC Blaine, but fans will not be allowed because of Minnesota state guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
We talked with 3M Open Tournament Director Mike Welch about the lack of spectators, how the made-for-TV event will look different than 2019, being thankful that they can still help charitable organizations, and more.
***Click the video box on this page to watch our chat with Welch***
Said Welch: "We’re happy we can put on a tournament without specators because it allows us to fund local charities with the few revenue streams we have. … While we are disappointed we won’t have spectators, ultimately we can fund these charities."
Welch noted that they are committed to funding charitable organizations that will help rebuild the Twin Cities.
3M Tournament director Mike Welch is grateful the 3M Open will still be happening, in large part so they can give back to charities.[KSTP: Scott Wise]
Top PGA players Brooks Koepka and Dustin Johnson have already committed to playing, with a handful of other top-30 players expected as well.
The 3M Open itself will be played July 23-26, with the prior days set up for Pro-Ams.
"This is a chapter in the 3M story," Welch said. "We will come out of this better for years 3 and beyond."
2019 was the first year the PGA Tour chose the Twin Cities as a long-term destination, and the 3M Open was created.