Blaine, Min. – The 3M open golf tournament will start later this week. Thousands will flood the TPC Twin Cities courses in Blaine to watch some of the best golfers in the world play on the PGA tour, but this tournament is more than just golf.
It is for families to have fun and for “golf curious” people to enjoy themselves.
The 3M Open Fan Hub has moved to a much larger space overlooking the 18th hole green. It’s fully air-conditioned so it’s a great place to cool off, as well as get up close and personal with the science and show off your golfing skills.
The theme of this year’s Fan Hub is “Phyigital”, which shows how 3M is part of the merging of the physical and digital worlds.
You can interact with celebrity holograms, but you can also take your own photo. There are real robots that can tell golf fans what to do and watch it happen before their very eyes. There is also a simulation where you can see how augmented reality can be used to improve your golf skills.
“Augmented reality, that digital overlay, shows what our path in this straight line should be, but what the break is actually going to do,” said Collin Hummel, Senior Manager of the 3M Partnership and Events team.
There are also virtual reality simulations, a chipping contest, and a 10-yard putting contest that gives back at every hole-in-one.
“The best part about this is if you make that well and we’re going to donate $100 in your name to First Tee,” Hummel said. First Tee is a national nonprofit organization with a Minnesota Chapter that brings golf to children in underserved communities.
When you’re ready to watch the tournament again, all you have to do is walk outside to the deck of the Fan Hub and watch the players take on their last chance to win the cup on the 18th hole.
The Fan Hub is freely accessible, unlike most tents. The tournament officially starts on Thursday and tickets are still available. Children under the age of 15 enter for free.
Marielle Mohs
Thanks for reading CBS NEWS.
Create your free account or log in
for more features.
