Clair Peterson's annual trip to the Arnold Palmer Invitational is not happening this year. The coronavirus pandemic means the longtime John Deere Classic tournament director won't be on the driving range this week at the Bay Hill Club & Lodge among the players, caddies, coaches, trainers, sports psychologists, media and other tournament representatives.
COVID-19 restrictions make it all but impossible for that many people to be on site. The pandemic also has caused issues for Peterson and his colleagues on the PGA Tour who are attempting to run local, nonprofit entities with zero to very little revenue. Peterson, who was at Bay Hill a year ago this week to recruit players for what was to be the 50th playing of the John Deere Classic in Silvis, Illinois, has bigger things to worry about these days.