YouTube stars will get the chance to compete at the Myrtle Beach Classic in May in what could be a game-changer for golf.
As part of an enticing sponsors exemption, 16 players, predominantly from the world of YouTube, will get the chance to earn a place in the tournament proper in May. Essentially, the winner of an 18-hole shootout at TPV Myrtle Beach will earn his shot.
Household names like Peter Finch, George Bryan and Grant Horvat will join some ex-players such as Luke Kwon – now of GoodGood Golf – in staking their claim.
Of course, one man who won’t be taking part is one of YouTube’s biggest names, Rick Shiels. However, the Englishman has had his say on the event and believes that some golf traditionalists are really hating on the PGA Tour for going down this route.
Rick Shiels shares his thoughts on YouTubers playing in PGA Tour events
Speaking on the latest episode of his Rick Shiels Golf Show, the popular YouTube star admitted that he can see both sides, albeit he’s more on the side of the YouTube creators than those against it.
“With the other side. I saw a lot of the not only traditionalist media but people within golf who are absolutely hating this idea because they think this spot should be going to an actual authentic PGA Tour player. A PGA Tour member, not some kind of Mickey Mouse shoot out to become a PGA Tour player, and that’s not my thought, it’s been online. However, if you gave it to Joe Bloggs the PGA Tour player there is no more eyeballs on that event, this is going to bring eyeballs. I am more pro it than against it. In fact I am more pro it. I just hope they do a really good job and it’s filmed well. And also I want PGA Tour players to look at it and think it’s pretty cool,” Shiels said.
Quite who will win out in the tournament is anyone’s guess really. There are some fine players taking part.
The full list can be found on the PGA Tour’s website and as Shiels says, the event will no doubt bring eyeballs to the coverage.
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