Compiled by Kathy Orton
Special to The Washington Post
Wednesday, May 29, 2002; Page H7

Most crowded place to watch
Because it is closest to the clubhouse and also because it is the end, the 18th green is the most popular place on the course. You have to arrive early to find a good spot on the grassy slope.

Least crowded place to watch
If you are up to the hike, No. 14 tee is the best spot to avoid the crowds. You are almost sure to find an unobstructed view.

Most likely place to see a birdie or an eagle
The par-5, 524-yard No. 13 has been the easiest hole on the course two years running. Last year, there were 169 birides and 12 eagles.

Most likely place to see a bogey
The par-4, 472-yard No. 12 has been the toughest hole on the course two years running. Last year, there were 89 bogeys, 22 double bogeys and four triple bogeys at this hole.

Best place to get a pro’s autograph
Don’t even bother asking a golfer to sign an autograph during his round. You will have a much better chance to snag his signature after he is finished and walking from the 18th green to the clubhouse.

Best place to chat with a caddie
Catch the caddies at the caddy van behind the clubhouse or when they are waiting with their players’ bags outside the clubhouse entrance before their round.

Most picturesque place to watch
For one of the most panoramic views on the course, sit or stand next to the green at No. 17. A small pond abuts the green. As you look back toward the tee, the Kemper logo literaly blooms on the grassy hill. You can also watch the next group tee off on No. 18.

Best green to sit next to
You will see plenty of interesting tee shots if you are next to the par-3 No. 9 green. Because of the elevated tee box and the ever-changing wind conditions, this is a tricky hole for the golfers. The water that buttresses the green makes it even more of a challenge.

Best place to watch when it’s hot
When it is scorching outside, seek shade underneath the grove of trees on the hill by the ninth green. You are also close to refreshment stands, providing easy access to a cool beverage.

Best place to watch when it’s raining
If you’re lucky enough to have a clubhouse badge or an invitation to one of the hospitality tents, you can seek shelter there. Otherwise, plan on getting wet.

Best place for handicap to watch
The cart path behind the 18th green is an ideal spot for those in wheelchairs.

Best place to park
Although public parking is available on Oaklyn Drive, it is extremely limited. Consider taking the shuttle bus instead. On Thursday and Friday only, park at the Montgomery Mall parking lot near Sears and take the shuttle bus to the course. On Saturday and Sunday, park at the Marriott headquarters lot off Fernwood Road in Bethesda and take a shuttle bus to the course. Parking is free.

Best way to arrive at the course
Unless you can secure one of the coveted parking spaces, the best way to arrive at TPC at Avenel is take the free Kemper shuttle bus. Service begins at 9 a.m. on Thursday and Friday and 8 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday and continues until one hour after play has concluded. The shuttle leaves every 15 minutes and takes about 20 minutes to and from the course.

Most crowded time to come to the tournament
If you arrive around noon on either Saturday or Sunday, expect a mass of humanity.

Least bust time to arrive
You won’t have the course to yourself, but if you arrive early morning on Thursday or Friday, you will have a good shot at nabbing a choice viewing spot or walking freely along the course.

Items you most need to bring
It is always good to have sunscreen and a hat. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget bug spray to keep away the gnats that swarm around TPC at Avenel. Dryer sheets are surprisingly effective at keeping away the bugs. You must display your daily pass or badge at all times.

What you need to leave at home
Do not bring a cell phone. If you have a pager, it must be on vibrate. Radios, televisions, signs, banners, ladders, coolers and beverages (including alcoholic) also are forbidden. Any of these items may be confiscated so rather than push your luck leave them in the car. Because of heightened security, no bags or backpacks will be permitted. Purses will be inspected. You can bring folding chairs, but leave the carrying case behind. Cameras and video cameras will not be permitted after Wednesday.

Ways to annoy those around you
Yell “You da man!" when a golfer hits his ball. This phrase has become so obnoxious that it is truly amazing no one has been hit over the head with a nine iron after uttering it. Another no-no: Start walking away before a group finishes putting. Remember, just because the "name" player is done that doesn’t mean it is time to move. Also avoid making any noise while a player is swinging.

Best golfer to follow to improve your swing
Jose Maria Olazabal’s swing is as pretty as they come. Fred Couples has great tempo. Carlos Franco and Steve Elkington have classic golf swings.

Best golfer to follow to improve your putting
David Frost, a 10-time PGA Tour winner, has led the tour in putting average twice during his career. For a unconventional approach, check out Chris DiMarco and his “claw” grip.

Best golfer to follow because you don’t know him yet but you soon will
Bryce Molder, a former Georgia Tech all-American who is playing on a sponsor’s exemption, recently finished tied for ninth at the Compaq Classic and tied for 22 at the Byron Nelson Classic. Chad Campbell was leading money winner and player of the year the past four years on the Buy.com and Hooters tours.

Most entertaining golfer to follow
Few golfers compare to Boo Weekley. This 28-year-old, who got his nickname from Yogi Bear’s sidekick, Boo Boo Bear, was a high school teammate of Heath Slocum. Weekley played in camouflage pants for awhile this season and always plays in sneakers because they are more comfortable.

Best place to find golfer off the course
If you stop by the Hunter’s Inn on River Road in Potomac, you might be able to catch a golfer winding down after his round.