Spectators were struck by lightning at the PGA Tour’s Travelers Championship as thunderstorms tore through Cromwell, Connecticut, Saturday afternoon.
Play was suspended at 3:30pm ET during the third round of the Tour’s final signature event as dangerous weather threatened the tournament at TPC River Highlands.
Fans were urged to seek shelter from the inclement weather as players were rushed to the safety of the clubhouse but despite the precautions,
two spectators were struck by a lightning strike almost an hour after the klaxon sounded.
At around 4:26pm ET, Cromwell Police Department began receiving 911 calls of a lightning strike
in the area of Pierson Green – a residential road located within the boundaries of the golf course.
First responders arrived at the scene to discover a tree had been struck with three people near the strike, Cromwell Fire Department said in a statement provided to DailyMail.com.
Two people were treated by emergency services at the scene before being transported to hospital. Another refused treatment.
Torrential rain, vivid lightning and strong winds ravaged TPC River Highlands as the golfers were forced to abandon play for almost three hours.
Overnight leader Tom Kim and Akshay Bhatia had established a one-shot lead over the rest of the field after playing just six and seven holes of their third rounds respectively.
The PGA Tour stars, including the hunting pack of World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, PGA Championship winner Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa, eventually managed to return to the course at 6:20pm ET in the hope of completing the full 18 holes in a race against the fading light.
It was the second time the tournament had been hit by storms. The Travelers had been forced into another three-hour delay the day before with new dad Scheffler, who admitted he spent the pause changing dirty diapers, among those who completed their second rounds in front of evacuated galleries in New England.
Following the harrowing incident at the Travelers Championship, safety measures at golf tournaments are under scrutiny. It is a reminder of the importance of taking precautions when severe weather strikes. Spectators and players alike must be vigilant and follow instructions from officials to seek shelter when storms approach. The incident also highlights the bravery and swift action of first responders who rushed to the scene to assist those affected by the lightning strike.As the PGA Tour continues to navigate unpredictable weather conditions, it serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination of both players and fans. Despite the challenges posed by the elements, the show must go on as competitors strive to complete their rounds and compete for the coveted championship title. The support and dedication of fans who braved the storm to cheer on their favorite golfers also deserve recognition.Events like the Travelers Championship are a testament to the passion and camaraderie shared among the golfing community. As players tee off and spectators line the fairways, the spirit of competition and sportsmanship shines through. The excitement and drama of each shot and swing captivate audiences around the world, making golf a truly thrilling sport to watch and follow.In the aftermath of the lightning strike incident, it is crucial for tournament organizers to review and reinforce safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. The well-being of players, spectators, and staff should always be the top priority when hosting large-scale sporting events. By learning from past experiences and implementing necessary precautions, the PGA Tour can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.Stay tuned for more updates and news from the world of golf as we continue to bring you valuable insights and information. Your support and feedback inspire us to deliver more engaging content and keep you informed about the latest developments in the sport. Thank you for being a part of our community and sharing your passion for golf with us. Let’s tee off together and explore the exciting journey ahead in the world of golf.
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Source: USA Today
