LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The excitement of fans and spectators for the 2024 PGA Championship was palpable Monday from the shuttle buses at the Kentucky Exposition Center to the tee boxes and fairways at Valhalla Golf Club in east Louisville.

The majority of general public ticket holders were directed to the KEC on Monday and they will continue to be pointed in that direction for the duration of the PGA Championship. Other shuttle rides are available in different locations, but the PGA has recommended fans use the KEC shuttle or get a ride from either Uber, Lyft or Z-Trip. Rideshare drivers have been given the location for drop off near the main entrance at Valhalla.

Dozens of charter buses lined up early Monday morning for the thousands of fans using that option to get to the course.

The sports world’s eyes turn to Louisville this week as the best golfers in the world compete for the 106th PGA Championship. But will the 200,000 fans on site and the millions watching at home see the same golf course that’s hosted six previous marquee PGA of America events?

“It’s going to be great," said one fan loading into a bus early Monday morning. "It’s going to be a pretty day and it’s going to be fun watching the golfers."

Once parked, people were able to walk a short distance to the crowded, energy filled buses that left every 10-15 minutes.

“Of course, it’s Monday, so it’s probably one of the slowest days," said Dakota Wienette, a Louisville golf fan attending his first PGA Championship. "But, right now, everything looks set up pretty well and ready to go."

IMAGES | Tiger Woods, big crowds headline day 1 of PGA Championship week at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville

WDRB’s news crew also rode the public transportation shuttle. From when the crew drove into the KEC until the arrival at Valhalla, the trip took 39 minutes.

“It was awfully giddy on the bus,” said Matt Ward, who also took the shuttle. “We’re ready to get out here and see some practice.”

Once at the course, fans are dropped off at a gate and can roam all 18 holes. Monday’s practice round featured play from some of the world’s top golfers who will be vying for the Wannamaker Trophy this week. Tiger Woods, Rickie Fowler, Dustin Johnson and Jon Rahm were just a few of the players at Valhalla on Monday for practice.

“None of us have ever been to Valhalla, and the thing is, we all have a time today where I can get everybody out together, spend a little money, drink a couple beers and watch Tiger Woods do his thing,” said Zech Maulden, a Bardstown native hanging out with friends at the course Monday.

There were some complaints and worries from fans who were taking shuttle rides to the course, but, so far, the experience and journey to Valhalla that begins about 18 miles away has been par for the course.

“Just a quick little 20 minute power nap from how early the morning started,” Maulden said. “Woke right up at Valhalla. Sounds like a dream but it was reality.”

For more information on what you need to know before heading to Valhalla, click here.

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