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Deere Classic Set to Begin July 9 with or without Fans

https://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/schedule.html
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PGA Tour
Screenshot of the revised PGA Tour schedule, April 16, 2020

Even though a number of tournaments have been cancelled or postponed because of COVID-19, the John Deere Classic is still on the PGA Tour's revised schedule.

Most tournaments in March, April, and May were postponed or cancelled.

But so far, the classic at TPC Deere Run in Silvis will be held the second week of July, its original date.

Tournament Director, Clair Peterson
Credit Michelle O'Neill / WVIK News
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WVIK News
John Deere Classic Tournament Director, Clair Peterson (file)

Tournament Director, Clair Peterson, says it's exciting to be on the schedule, but he's not assuming anything yet.

The first four tournaments will be held with no fans due to safety concerns, and the Deere classic is 5th. So it's potentially the first that may be held with fans.

Peterson says Deere classic staff are planning for both possibilities, a tournament with fans and one without.

Either way, the tournament will need volunteers to help pull it off. Usually about 2,000 people volunteer during tournament week. 

Credit WVIK News / WVIK News
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WVIK News
2019 champion, Dylan Fritelli (L), with Sam Allen, from Deere & Co. (file)

Peterson says the next big decision will have to be made in about a month.

That's when contractors would begin building all the tents, venues, and arenas at the golf course.

Commissioner Jay Monahan says the PGA Tour's number one priority is safety.

And he emphasizes it will continue to follow the recommendations of local, state, and federal governments as they make decisions about the coronavirus pandemic.

Tour officials plan to decide the "most appropriate on-site access in each market."

They will also "continually review COVID-19 protocols that could be implemented" at PGA Tour tournaments.

Officially, Michelle's title for 28 years was WVIK News Editor. She did everything there is to do in the newsroom and whatever was needed around the radio station. She also served as Acting News Director from September 2023 - January 2024.
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