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Johnson & Spieth Ready to Play

Michelle O'Neill
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WVIK News

Past champions Zach Johnson and Jordan Spieth are ready to compete this week at the 45th annual John Deere Classic in the Quad Cities. The golfers spoke to reporters today in Silvis at TPC Deere Run before tomorrow's pro-am.

Johnson, a native of Cedar Rapids, sits on the tournament's board of directors. He says it's spectacular news that Deere and Company has extended its title sponsorship with the PGA Tour and the classic.

Three children stand and talk in front of large signs
Credit Michelle O'Neill / WVIK News
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WVIK News
Tuesday's Kids Day at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, IL

Johnson, who also serves on the tournament's board, won the classic in 2012, then Jordan Spieth won the following year at the age of 19. Spieth is having a great season, winning the Master's in April and the US Open last month. He's eager to play this week after a vacation in the Bahamas, and before next week's British Open.

Spieth1.mp3
I'll be fully rested with plenty of energy for (the Open) at St. Andrews. I'm not worried about that. I just want to get in contention here so I can find out what tendencies I'm getting into after this break.

Credit Michelle O'Neill / WVIK News
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WVIK News
Families with children of all ages came to Youth Day at the John Deere Classic.

Spieth says there's plenty of room for another John Deere Classic trophy next to the leaping deer he won in 2013.

The tournament starts Thursday morning. Tomorrow's pro-am will feature actor Bill Murray, plus Deere and Company Chairman and CEO, Sam Allen, and defending champion Brian Harman. 

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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