Cell phones allowed on-site for 2011 WGC-Bridgestone Invit.

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AKRON, Ohio -- In accordance with the PGA TOUR's new mobile device policy, announced in February, fans are now allowed to bring their cell phones to next month's World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational.

As part of the new policy, the Bridgestone Invitational, held at the historic South Course at Firestone Country Club, August 3-7, will also put several new social media initiatives in place for this year's event.

With the revised policy, spectators are allowed to carry mobile devices on the golf course with the volume setting on silent. Phone calls may be made or received in designated areas only, strategically located throughout the golf course. Fans will be allowed to receive and send messages and check data on the golf course away from play. No video recording is permitted at any time during the week, and no photography will be permitted during official competition rounds.

"Mobile devices have become an important part of everyday life, and we understand it's difficult to ask our fans to 'unplug' during their time on the golf course at the Bridgestone Invitational," said Executive Director Donald Padgett. "Allowing cell phones on the golf course has been a tremendous fan enhancement at PGA TOUR events since the policy was implemented in March, and we expect the same here in Akron. We anticipate our fans will be respectful of the rules and regulations associated with the policy."

As part of the new policy, fans will be able to interact with the event through many social media on-site initiatives, such as:

The Bridgestone Invitational Social Media Zone. By following one of the event's social media feeds, fans can receive access to the tournament's "Social Media Zone," located at the Courtyard near the 13th green and will include shaded seating and concessions for fans.

Daily specials and promotions will be held during tournament week including:

• Giveaways
• Ticket upgrades
• Pictures with the trophy
• QR Codes that can be entered into your mobile device to win giveaways from Bridgestone
• Text to win options -- In addition to the QR codes on site for prizing, fans can text WGCBI to 63566 for a chance to win a foursome at Firestone Country Club, site of the Bridgestone Invitational.

Have a question on-site? Post to the Bridgestone Invitational's Facebook page and the tournament staff will get back to you with prompt and helpful information.

And as always, fans can follow the Bridgestone Invitational on Facebook for exclusive offers, behind-the-scenes updates, player commitments and exciting news about on-site activities just for fans leading up to the tournament.

Included among the approved areas for cell phone use are all concession areas and hospitality venues. For a complete list of approved areas where cell phone use is permitted, please visit www.worldgolfchampionships.com.

Tickets to the Bridgestone Invitational can be purchased by visiting www.worldgolfchampionships.com or calling 330-644-2299.