The 36th American Century Championship (ACC) is underway at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, drawing massive crowds and celebrity golfers alike. This year promises even more excitement, with unique storylines and high stakes on and off the green.
Celebrities Hit the Green for Practice Rounds
Even before the official tournament start, celebrities were spotted practicing their swings. Brian Baumgartner, best known as Kevin Malone from The Office, was seen offering golf advice (with a humorous disclaimer) on hole No. 9. NFL Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis diligently practiced his putting, ensuring fans got their autographs, with a one-per-person rule.
Super Bowl champion Andrew Whitworth was also spotted strategizing on hole No. 6, preparing for the challenges of the course.
Kelce's Weight Loss Bet: Blue Man Group on the Line?
Adding extra spice to the tournament, Travis Kelce has a unique bet with a friend, Patrick Bacon. Kelce challenged Bacon to lose 25 pounds by the tournament. If Bacon fails, he must caddy for Kelce while dressed as a member of the Blue Man Group. Fans will be watching closely to see if Bacon pulls off this weight loss feat and whether the Blue Man Group makes an appearance on the course.
Record Crowds and Sold-Out Tickets
The American Century Championship continues to grow in popularity. In 2024, it drew a record crowd of 77,049 fans. This year, officials are anticipating even larger numbers. Tickets for Friday and Saturday are already sold out, highlighting the event's high demand. Weeklong passes and single-day tickets for Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday are still available, but fans are encouraged to purchase them online in advance.
What to Expect at Edgewood Tahoe
The atmosphere at the ACC is unlike any other golf tournament. Hole No. 17 is known for its lively environment, with music blasting from boats and fans eagerly seeking autographs. The usual golf decorum is absent, creating a fun and engaging experience for all attendees. Be prepared for footballs and basketballs tossed to golfers for autographs, adding to the unique charm of the event.
Tournament Format
The ACC uses a modified Stableford scoring system, which awards points based on performance on each hole:
- Double Eagle: 10 points
- Hole-in-One: 8 points
- Birdie: 3 points
- Par: 1 point
- Bogey: -1 point
- Double Bogey: -2 points
This scoring system encourages risk-taking and rewards aggressive play, making it exciting for both players and spectators.