Originally Published by Toyota North America.
Golf’s most celebrated weekend is back, returning with official vehicle Lexus. The 118th U.S. Open Championship takes place June 14-17, 2018 at prestigious Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York, for the fifth time in its significant history.
“The U.S. Open is one of golf’s most exciting majors,” said Greg Kitzens, general manager, Lexus marketing. “Our longstanding partnership with the USGA and its championships allows us to provide our customers and fans with premium experiences at the U.S. Open, connecting with them in a unique way.”
The Lexus Performance Experience, located near the main entrance in Fan Central, provides fun, interactive activities for all attendees throughout the weekend. With the “Lexus VR Experience,” fans have the opportunity to be virtually transported into the seat of a Lexus RC F 467-horsepower sports car while a world champion racecar driver aggressively speeds them around a racetrack. Attendees are also invited to try their skill with the Lexus Hole-in-One Challenge. The fan that sinks the ball in this simulated replica of the famous 7th hole at Shinnecock Hills will win a two-year lease on a 2018 RX 350L the automaker’s best-selling SUV, the vehicle that created a category and now provides even more space with a third row. Additional activities include the “Putt Like a Pro” simulation, photo opportunities with the U.S. Open Trophy, and autograph sessions with Lexus Golf Ambassadors Jason Day, Patrick Cantlay and Charles Howell III, among others.
Over the course of the Championship, Lexus will provide almost 350 courtesy vehicles to players and officials. Several Lexus vehicles will be displayed throughout the grounds, including the all-new 2019 ES and UX near the course and the 2018 LS 500 F SPORT and LC 500 Inspiration Series in the Lexus Performance Experience.
Lexus is the first and only automotive partner in USGA history, serving as the official vehicle of the USGA and its championships, including the U.S. Open, U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Senior Open, U.S. Senior Women’s Open and U.S. Amateur Championship. Lexus also partners with an impressive team of professional players and golf legends. Current Lexus Golf Ambassadors include Jason Day, Patrick Cantlay, Charles Howell III, Wesley Bryan, Jamie Sadlowski, Lydia Ko, Annika Srenstam, Natalie Gulbis, Johnny Miller, Peter Jacobsen, Mark O’Meara, and Mark Pfeil. Leading up to the Championship, a luxurious Lexus LX transported the U.S. Open Trophy in style during a 61-day tour throughout the tri-state area.
