Post by philknj on Nov 13, 2019 2:13:47 GMT
The LPGA's VP of Asian business matters had some newsworthy speculation on the future in the above Q & A ... excerpts, courtesy of Google mush:
- First about "TOTO Japan Classic". The only three-day tournament with four Asian swings, and the total prize money is minimal.
Certainly, we are talking to the organizer about the duration and total prize money (* The tournament organizers have also heard requests from both the Japan and US tours to make it 4 days, and there is a possibility that it will change after the 2021 season. Admits) Of course, for LPGA, the 4-day tournament is the standard and the prize money is better. But every game has a goal. If the title sponsor is satisfied with the status quo, we are OK.
In the United States, “Shoplight (LPGA Classic by Acer)” and “Walmart (NW Arkansas Championship)” are three-day tournaments. Both are supermarket chains, and it is best for them to please their customers, employees and business partners rather than who will win. For them, it's a great opportunity to spend quality time with their customers, and it's better to play pro-ama for two days than to play for four days. After all, the question is who will cut the check. Sport events are not all sponsors, but it is also true that they cannot be realized without them. I want to remember to respect them.
In the United States, “Shoplight (LPGA Classic by Acer)” and “Walmart (NW Arkansas Championship)” are three-day tournaments. Both are supermarket chains, and it is best for them to please their customers, employees and business partners rather than who will win. For them, it's a great opportunity to spend quality time with their customers, and it's better to play pro-ama for two days than to play for four days. After all, the question is who will cut the check. Sport events are not all sponsors, but it is also true that they cannot be realized without them. I want to remember to respect them.
―What are your thoughts on future collaboration with Japan tours?
I have spoken with JLPGA (Japan Women's Professional Golf Association) to think of something bigger in the future, but no specific proposal has been made. The Japan Tour is the world's top level tour, so I think players who are ranked in the top 3 prize rankings can play an active part in the US tour. In the future, it may be possible to grant LPGA qualifications to top players if they wish.
On the other hand, we are going to add / change the Q series and the Simetra tour system after next year. 10 people from the mechanism of the International Q series and now from the lower Simetra tour have gone up to the LPGA tour, but I think it will be expanded. I can't say the details yet, but I'm planning to strengthen the so-called “international pipeline” within the last couple of years.