Columnist Peter Benton: Crowd support key in keeping Takefuji Classic

Peter Benton

Wednesday, April 13, 2005 | 9:10 a.m.

Peter Benton's golf column appears Wednesday.

The Las Vegas Country Club will be the setting Thursday for the first round of the LPGA's Takefuji Classic, where, with the exceptions of Annika Sorenstam, Se Ri Pak and Grace Park, everyone who is anyone on tour will be competing.

Last year's champion, Cristie Kerr, will be back attempting to defend her title, and also looking to repeat as champion is Candie Kung, winner of the inaugural Takefuji Classic.

Australia's Karrie Webb, playing so much better than she has for the past couple of years, will no doubt also be in the hunt, as could Laura Davies.

Davies, a crowd favorite, will make her initial start in this event, and along with a myriad of other admirers I cannot wait to see her perform.

The appearance of this incredibly affable player is a terrific plus for the Takefuji, and with her laid-back personality, coupled with her go-for-broke attitude, you can guarantee she will have a tremendous gallery.

There is not yet word of the contract being renewed for this tournament for next season, though a strong show of crowd support would go a long way toward making that happen.

Admission is $15 daily, a ground pass (good for three days) is $30, and a clubhouse badge is $50.

Because of limited parking, the Gold Lot at the Convention Center on Paradise will be used, with a free shuttle bus transporting patrons to and from the course.