As host to the 119th U.S. Open Championship, all eyes are on the famed Pebble Beach Golf Links, which is known for its stunning views of the coastline and Pacific Ocean. But this year, there’s even more reason to be wowed. Cisco is the Official Technology Partner of the United States Golf Association (USGA) and its championships, promising to make this year’s tournament the most connected in U.S. Open history.  

What does it mean to be a connected golf course? For the first time ever, fans watching in person, online, or on TV will have more ways than ever to engage and interact. For starters, Cisco will power a robust Wi-Fi network throughout the grounds with 400 wireless access points. This will make it easier than ever for fans and media to stay connected and share all the memorable moments from the championship.

See also: Cisco vision brings data to life at the U.S. Open

“With 156 players in the field we know that the ability to follow scores and stay connected to the championship on your mobile device is critical to delivering a superior fan experience. Our partners at Cisco have worked closely with our team to ensure our fans don’t miss a moment of the action,” says Navin Singh, chief commercial officer of the USGA. 

In addition, Cisco will test Wi-Fi 6, the next-generation standard using Cisco Meraki Wi-Fi 6 access points. “Cisco Wi-Fi 6, has significant implications for the sports industry because the network will deliver faster speeds for immersive-experience applications, more device and IoT capacity for high-density environments, more bandwidth, higher reliability, and reduced latency,” says Gerri Elliott, Cisco’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. “The 2019 U.S. Open will be the first showcase opportunity for Cisco to collaborate with the USGA on one of the largest stages in golf.” 

See also: USGA using Cisco Webex to connect journalists to players at U.S. Open

For fans watching online or in the comforts of their home, Cisco and the USGA have partnered to create an app, allowing them to watch free live-streaming coverage on Apple TV and Roku. And for those who love reliving historic U.S. Open moments, fans can watch featured films, and entire final-round broadcasts from the most memorable championships, including all five U.S. Opens at Pebble Beach. 

Partnerships like the one between USGA and Cisco show how technology and innovation can make the future of sporting events like the U.S. Open Championship even more transformative than it already is for players, fans, and businesses alike.