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Next year, the U.S. Open will be in WI for the first time! “”If we get a second date — that would be awesome”
Next year, the U.S. Open will be in WI for the first time! ""If we get a second date -- that would be awesome"
TOWN OF ERIN -- Dustin Johnson won the U.S. Open Sunday, June 19th on FOX6. Next year, the prestigious golf tournament will be held at Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin -- and already, excitement is building.
Erin Hills Golf Course
With a year to go until the 2017 U.S. Open, Erin Hills is already seeing visitors from out-of-state who want to play on a future U.S. Open course.
Erin Hills Golf Course
In June of 2017, the world will see that course for the first time.
During Father's Day weekend 2017, an estimated 40,000 people will pack onto the greens for the U.S. Open at Erin Hills.
"Look forward to having everyone from around the world and the United States come and enjoy Wisconsin," Scott Henke with the Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce said.
Erin Hills Golf Course
Wisconsin has never hosted a U.S. Open before. Henke said it will be a sort-of first date.
"It's an audition because they're not guaranteed to come back. We have to put our best foot forward," Henke said.
The tournament means millions of dollars of revenue for the area, and unprecedented publicity for Erin Hills, which is already selling 2017 U.S. Open merchandise.
Erin Hills Golf Course
"The hospitality is very important. We want everyone to have a great time when they come to the Hartford area," Henke said.
AmericInn in Hartford
The Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting customer service and tourism workshops.
The AmericInn in Hartford is completely booked.
"Hotels are all pretty much booked up in this region. Obviously the farther out you go, the easier it'll be to get a room," Henke said.
"It's such a great course. Good for the community, good for golf in Wisconsin," Mike Malahy said.
Erin Hills Golf Course
Mike and Nick Malahy will volunteer at the tournament -- something they had to apply for two years in advance.
"I think once people see how beautiful Erin Hills is on the TV they will flock here," Nick Malahy said.
Local tourism officials hope they'll also flock to local restaurants and tourism spots.
It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a first impression and maybe start a tradition of championships in the Town of Erin.
"If we get a second date -- that would be awesome," Henke said.
Tickets for the 2017 U.S. Open are on sale now. Gallery tickets range from $50 per day to $125 per day.
CLICK HERE to purchase tickets.