Before the light of dawn, when only the pros are out, you’ll find the true fans.
“This is where I enjoy the tournament the most," Gil McNally said.
For the second year in a row, McNally was the first one at the practice range. McNally, a retired PGA professional, says he enjoys seeing the golfers warm up; it reminds him of his days on the course.
“I look at that and I think my body used to do that, it doesn’t do as well anymore,” McNally said.
Many who show up early are die-hard fans or aspiring golfers; they set their alarms for 4 a.m.
“I wanted to show up early, just beat the crowd and then I also wanted to see these guys on the range cause I know, just listening to the sound is different,” Matthew Cestari said.
The sound of golfers hitting the ball is music to Paul Fiore's ears. Fiore drove from Melbourne to see one his hometown favorites, Billy Horschel.
“These players are so good, they work so hard. They’ve got amazing talent and it’s just a privilege and an honor just to watch these guys.”
The range is located off the 1st hole. Gates open at 6 a.m.