AT&T Invitational: Storm Damage on Course Delays Tee Times for 3rd Round

The storm that passed over Bethesda, Md., Friday night caused significant damage at the Congressional Country Club, the site of this weekend's AT&T National tournament, according to GolfChannel.com senior writer Jason Sobel:

"

Just waking up? Storm damage at Congressional. No spectators or volunteers on course. Tee times moved back. Eerie sight if they do play.

— Jason Sobel (@JasonSobelGC) June 30, 2012"

According to reports from the Associated Press, the storm has left several fallen trees on the course, and fans will not be allowed to view any of Saturday's action if and when it resumes. 

Tournament officials released the following statement on Saturday (via AP): "At this time, it's unknown if competition will take place today. Competition will definitely resume on Sunday."

Tee times have been delayed and are scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m. ET according to the AT&T National:

"

UPDATE: The third round of the #ATTNational will be a two tee start beginning at 1pm. Last time 3:10p. @TigerWoods goes at 2:40p.

— AT&T National (@ATTNational) June 30, 2012"

It will definitely take a supreme effort from course workers and tournament officials to get Congressional ready for play by Saturday afternoon.

According to AP reports, a 75-foot-tall tree fell on the 14th hole fairway, and nearly every fairway has been cluttered by fallen tree limbs.

Officials are also still working to restore power at the golf course.

Sobel brought up a couple of interesting questions in a Saturday morning tweet:

"

If they play at AT&T today, fascinating study in player behavior with no fans. Will they still fist-pump? Still mutter under their breath?

— Jason Sobel (@JasonSobelGC) June 30, 2012"

American Hunter Mahan (-7) currently leads by two strokes after the first two rounds, but the lack of fans at Saturday's third round could impact both Mahan and the field in a big way.