So, I heard Justin Timberlake was gonna be at the American Century thing again in 2024. You know, the celebrity golf tournament up in Lake Tahoe. I follow that stuff loosely, and JT’s always a draw, right?
I figured, why not? Never been to one of these big celebrity golf deals. Seemed like it could be a decent time, maybe catch some sun, see some famous folks whack a ball around.
Getting the Plan Together
First thing, I started looking into it. Tickets, where to stay, how to even get up there. Let me tell you, it wasn’t exactly straightforward. Tahoe in July? Prices go nuts. Everything was either booked solid or cost an arm and a leg.
Spent a few evenings just digging through websites, checking out motels kinda far away, trying to figure out the logistics. Found a place eventually, not too fancy, but it worked. Then snagged a grounds pass online. Honestly, the planning part was more work than I expected.
Heading Up There
Packed up the car, threw in some snacks, and started the drive. Traffic was what you’d expect heading towards Tahoe for a big event – slow going in parts. But the scenery’s always nice, helps pass the time.
Got to the hotel, checked in. Basic room, just needed a place to crash. Dropped my stuff and headed straight over to the golf course the next morning.
At the Tournament
Okay, so the vibe there was pretty interesting. Lots of people, obviously. Big crowds following the main groups. You could feel the buzz, especially when someone famous was nearby.
I wandered around for a bit, just taking it all in. Caught glimpses of a few players here and there. Some actors, some sports guys. It’s weird seeing them just… walking around, playing golf.
Tried to find where Timberlake’s group was. That was a mission. The crowds following him were huge. Seriously packed. You had to crane your neck or find a little hill to stand on just to maybe see something.
- Saw the back of his head once, I think.
- Heard the crowd cheer when he hit a decent shot.
- Mostly just saw a lot of other people trying to see him too.
It wasn’t exactly like watching him on TV, you know? More about just being there, part of the whole scene. Grabbed a ridiculously overpriced beer and a hot dog, sat on the grass for a while watching a different group go by.
Wrapping Up
Stayed for most of the day. It got pretty hot, and honestly, watching golf live involves a lot of walking and standing around. Saw some good shots, saw some terrible ones (makes you feel better about your own game, ha).
Did I get a great view of JT? Nah, not really. But the whole experience? It was alright. Something different. Saw how these big events operate, the crowds they pull. It’s a whole operation.
Was it worth all the hassle and cost? Eh, maybe once. Probably wouldn’t rush back to fight those crowds again just for a glimpse. But hey, I went, I saw (sort of), I got the t-shirt (not literally, they were expensive too). Now I can say I’ve been to the American Century Championship. Tick that box.
