Big news on the local golfing front. The Turning Stone Resort Championship, which had been plagued by bad weather and low attendance is moving to August as part of the PGA's regular season.  This should ensure more big name golfers and much better weather to help grow the attendance at the event.  Chris Wagner of the Post Standard in Syracuse filed this report:

"The 2010 Turning Stone Resort Championship will be played the week of August 2-8 as part of the PGA TOUR’s FedExCup season. The one-year transitional event will be placed in the slot previously held by the Reno-Tahoe Open, held during the same week as the World Golf Championships- Bridgestone Invitational. The Reno-Tahoe Open will move to the same week as the British Open in July.

“In a very short time, the Turning Stone Resort Championship has established a strong presence on the PGA TOUR and has earned the respect and appreciation of the players for being a terrific tournament venue,” said PGA TOUR Commissioner Tim Finchem. “This transitional move to the first week of August within the FedExCup schedule will help with the tournament’s continued growth and provide more desirable weather conditions. Moving forward, our goal is to secure an unencumbered date within the FedExCup schedule for Turning Stone.”

“We are excited about the opportunity to host a summer event as part of the PGA TOUR’s FedExCup, ensuring a bright future for the Turning Stone Resort Championship in 2010 and beyond,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Nation Representative and CEO of Nation Enterprises. “This is a shining example of how parties can work together to make great things happen. The Oneida Nation and Turning Stone Resort look forward to continuing our partnership with the PGA TOUR, which benefits the entire Central New York region.”

The championship was played the third week of September during its first year. The past two years it has been contested the first week of October, bringing with it cold temperatures, freezing rain, winds -- and low spectator turnout.

The 2010 Turning Stone Resort Championship will feature 132 players and offer 250 FedExCup points to the winner. "
 
 

A stand out weather weekend is in store for Central New York and there are some outstanding events going on this weekend.  We have picked out five can't miss activities that you and your family or friends will have an outstanding time at.
1.Critz Farm's Fall Harvest Celebration-- Along with all the usual harvest fun including hay rides, cider pressing and pumpkin picking, this weekend is the Big Toys for Big Girls and Boys Farm Equipment Show.  You can even drive a tractor.  Fun for all ages.
2. Farmer's Markets-- The bounty of Central New York is on full display at the farmer's markets this weekend.  Cazenovia's runs all day Saturday in Cannon Park and you will find Hamilton's on the village green Saturday as well.
3. Gaelic Storm performs live at the Earlville Opera House in Earlville.  Make it a complete evening and dine at the Colgate Inn before you go.
4. Colors of Autumn--The Great Swamp Conservancy in Canastota hosts this event that is fun and educational for the whole family.  It starts at 10 am and is free for the whole family.  Advanced registration is required.
5. Turning Stone Resort Championship--The PGA is in full force this weekend at Turning Stone.  Enjoy a day full of golf action then enjoy a big feast at one of Madison County's unique restaurants.

 
 

What an awesome week of weather we are having in Central New York.  It is great weather to get out and enjoy golf at one of Madison County's great golf courses.  No matter how hard you strike the ball, or how bad your putting is, there is a golf course for every skill level in Madison County.  Many of them are offering fall specials and deals for you to get out onto the course.  The PGA is in town with their fall series, so if you head out to the Turning Stone Resort Championship, bring your clubs and golf at a great Madison County Golf Course.