SYLVANIA, Ohio — This week, thousands of people are at Highland Meadows Golf Course in Sylvania to attend the 40th Dana Open. There are many components that go into running a successful tournament, and few are more important than security.
Patrick Chase is the head of security with the LPGA. He began his career in safety as a police officer in Detroit, before eventually moving to Minnesota and commanding the state police. Chase’s specialty was in executive security, protecting the state’s governor.
After retiring in 2009, Chase took over security for the LPGA. Chase’s focus is on the safety of the golfers, who are at risk of harassment or even physical harm. He says the most dangerous time for the golfers is the time between leaving the green and entering the next tee box.
“It’s a little bit different, but it works out pretty well,” Chase said.
Typically, the golfers leave the 18th green signing autographs and taking pictures with fans. It’s at that point you can see Chase just behind stars like Lexi Thompson and Gaby Lopez, staying vigilant for anything he deems suspicious.
"I enjoy it. The girls are very appreciative. It's not a stressful job like the 25 years I put in prior, obviously,” Chase said. “And it's golf. I'm outside. Not sitting in a police car or an office. It's golf with fabulous golfers and great people that make these tournaments happen."
Chase says his team is keeping an eye out for about three-dozen individuals the LPGA has banned from their events. He says they also monitor social media for posts about or directed to the golfers.
“If you can’t come out and watch the girls, then don’t attack them on social media,” Chase said. “That’s a big issue that I wish people would think about.”
MORE FROM WTOL 11 SPORTS: