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Kodak Challenge Visits Hole #13 at Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial, Launches Fantasy Game
Wednesday 27. May 2009 - Registration Underway for New Kodak Challenge Fantasy Game that Lets Fans Play with PGA TOUR Pros; Kodak Fan Zone Lets Crowne Plaza Fans Create Lasting Memory of Legendary Hole #13
The Kodak Challenge, a first-of-its-kind competition for PGA TOUR players and fans, visits the 13th hole at the Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, TX during the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial on May 28-31. This week also marks the launch of the Kodak Challenge Fantasy Pick Em, a free online game at fantasy.kodakchallenge.com, where fans can experience the action of the Kodak Challenge. Participants are eligible for Kodak prizes as well as a season-ending giveaway to win a “DISNEY Golf Dream Vacation for Four.”
An Advisory Board of leading golf experts selected the par-3 13th as one of 30 holes that make up the Kodak Challenge. The Kodak Challenge celebrates beautiful holes and memorable moments on the PGA TOUR and challenges players to perform their best on Kodak Challenge holes, with the winner taking home $1 million and the Kodak Challenge trophy. After 13 Kodak Challenge holes, Chris DiMarco holds sole possession of first place at 7-under-par. Justin Leonard leads a group of five one stroke behind in second place, while Zach Johnson, fresh off his win at the Valero Texas Open two weeks ago, is among a large group just two shots off the lead.
Fantasy Game Gives Fans a Shot at Kodak Challenge Action
Registration is now underway for the new Kodak Challenge Fantasy Pick Em. To participate, fans can visit fantasy.kodakchallenge.com to select their favorite fantasy foursome for each of the Kodak Challenge holes, earning points based upon the cumulative performance of their team on that weeks designated hole. First-place winners each week will receive their choice of a KODAK Digital Camera, Pocket Video Camera, All-in-One Printer or Digital Picture Frame. All players also receive an entry into the “DISNEY Golf Dream Vacation for Four” Grand Prize giveaway each time they submit a fantasy roster.
To play the Kodak Challenge Fantasy Pick Em this week, players must submit their team rosters before May 28, the first day of play at the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial.
“Golf fans everywhere have been asking for a way to join the excitement of the Kodak Challenge,” said Jeffrey Hayzlett, Chief Marketing Officer and Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “Thats why weve responded with a fantasy game thats fun and easy to play and allows them to become part of the Kodak Challenge action.”
Fan Photo Zone Provides Fans live photo on #13
Also this week, Kodak is giving fans a first-of-its-kind, on-site activity at the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial — the Kodak Fan Photo Zone. Fans will be able to have their picture taken at Hole #13 — a live shot during tournament play when cameras are not typically allowed. Fans can pick up a free copy of their photo at the Kodak Fan Photo Zone throughout the entire tournament. While visiting the Kodak Fan Photo Zone, fans can also learn about Kodaks latest products and how they can even be used for their golf game.
The Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial is currently the longest-running event the PGA TOUR has played at the same course, starting in 1946 with Ben Hogan as the inaugural winner. Hole #13 is an exhilarating, risk-reward par 3 measuring 171 yards. The tee shot carries over the water to a two-tiered narrow green. Winds have been known to make this hole particularly difficult, though a well-placed tee shot can provide a birdie opportunity. The course was renovated in 2008, including adjustments to the bunkers on the 13th hole. This week, the hills behind the 13th green will have open-seating for all fans, in addition to the corporate hospitality.
“We are pleased to be part of the Kodak Challenge and thrilled that Hole #13 at Colonial Country Club, site of the Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial, was selected as one of the most beautiful and memorable holes on the PGA TOUR,” said Tournament Chairman Harold Muckleroy. “This is certainly our most popular hole and a perfect fit for the Kodak Challenge. This year we are also enhancing the overall experience of Hole #13 by reintroducing open seating behind the green. We look forward to having fans follow the excitement of the Kodak Challenge throughout the weekend here at Colonial.”
In 2009, 30 PGA TOUR tournaments feature a designated Kodak Challenge hole. Players must play at least 18 of the 30 Kodak Challenge holes throughout the season to compete for $1 million and the Kodak Challenge trophy. A players lowest score relative to par on his best 18 Kodak Challenge holes will be counted. The player with the lowest cumulative score relative to par wins. The 2009 Kodak Challenge competition concludes at the Childrens Miracle Network Classic in November at DISNEYs Magnolia Golf Course in Lake Buena Vista, FL.
“The PGA TOUR has been extremely pleased with the interest generated around the Kodak Challenge,” said Tom Wade, Chief Marketing Officer, PGA TOUR. “The new competition has become a fun and exciting part of the PGA TOUR season and the players have really welcomed Kodaks brand and image while celebrating beautiful and memorable holes. The Kodak Challenge leader board will only get more interesting as the season progresses.”
Kodak’s marketing partnership with the TOUR includes the designation as Official Imaging Provider of the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Nationwide Tour, including cameras, printers and scanners.