Columnist Peter Benton: Takefuji Classic just around the corner

Peter Benton

Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2005 | 9:15 a.m.

Peter Benton's golf column appears Wednesday.

If you haven't been counting, there are but seven weeks remaining before the third LPGA Takefuji Classic gets under way at the Las Vegas Country Club. The 18-hole Pro-Am segment of play takes place on Wednesday, April 13, with the 54-hold tournament scheduled for the following Thursday through Saturday.

The world's No. 1 female golfer, Annika Sorenstam, has not yet committed and the invitation offered the young amateur sensation from Hawaii, Michelle Wie, has been declined.

However, last year's champion, Cristie Kerr, will be back to defend her title along with the Takefuji inaugural winner, Candie Kung, plus a full field of some of the best women golfers in the world.

Local players who have entered include Stephanie Louden, Kim Sarki and Natalie Gulbis, all extremely talented and personable young players, who will, all in their own distinctive way, add to the interest of this event.

All of the above, however, are guaranteed to be pushed to the limit by Laura Davies and Karrie Webb.

Davies, a crowd favorite who is making her initial start in the event, is one super cool and incredibly talented golfer. Her laid-back personality and go-for-broke attitude make her a colossal crowd favorite.

Webb, who just a couple of years ago was Sorenstam's main rival, is hoping that the minor slump she has been in is a thing of the past. The offseason has seen her diligently working on her game and according to reports from Down Under, her confidence level is at its best.

Most volunteers will be needed Thursday through Saturday with a myriad of positions to choose from, including the following:

-- Admissions/Will Call: Greeting the fans, selling tickets, checking spectators for correct credentials, etc., etc.

-- Course Operations: Assist with the media room and course setup, along with distributing supplies to scoring tents and teeing areas.

-- Driving Range: Help keep the range in order, provide balls to the players and keeping beverages stocked.

-- Locker Rooms: Provide hospitality for the LPGA professionals along with distributing mail and messages.

-- Private Housing: Many of the professionals prefer to stay in private homes as opposed to a hotel. If you have an extra bedroom, this could be your opportunity to assist.

-- Pro-Am: Checking in guests plus distribute gift bags at the Tuesday evening pairings dinner. Welcome VIP guests to the hospitality area plus distribute gift and photo packages to the pro-am participants.

The above are some of the positions for which volunteers are needed, and you can personally determine the job of your choice upon registering.

There is a $25 fee to cover the cost of the uniform which this year will be an embroidered yellow LaMode shirt, and a choice of golf cap or visor which will be worn with your own navy shorts or slacks.

Volunteer forms are available at the tournament office, located at the Las Vegas Country Club, right behind the Hilton.