April, 21, 2009 -- In the battle at the bayou, the PGA Tour has made a habit of identifying the next rising star of golf. This includes the course, where the TPC Louisiana is quickly becoming a favorite for players and galleries alike. PGA Head Professional Luke Farabaugh of TPC Louisiana spoke with us about what makes his facility - and his hometown - such a great host for the world's best players.

PGA.com: The Zurich Classic seems to be a great launching point for golf careers. Four years straight, now, this event has been won by first-time winners on Tour. This is becoming a real trend. What is it about the course and the event that sets up so well for players to break through for their first victory?

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Farabaugh: This is a long, challenging course -- one that I think plays right into the "new breed" of golfers coming up through the ranks. The trend nowadays seems to favor these young guns, who can bomb it off the tee and play fearless on the long approach shots. But it's not a fluke or anything. Our last two winners have been Andres Romero and Nick Watney. I'd say those two have established themselves quite well as golf stars in many events since making their splash here.

PGA.com: And if the trend of first time winners were to continue?

Farabaugh: We're very excited about the great field we have this week. I'd be hard pressed to come up with a favorite, but if you're looking for a future star, keep an eye out for Danny Lee. He's already won the Johnnie Walker Classic in Dubai as an amateur and of course, the U.S. Amateur. We're very proud that he's making his professional debut here with us.

PGA.com: How does the course look?

Farabaugh: It will be a little different than in years past. We did not over seed this year so the course is playing firmer, faster. The course is going to play quite a bit different in that the long drives are now going to roll out much further, possibly making some drives that might have stayed in the fairway last year find some trouble this year. It will be similar to how the TPC Sawgrass course (another Pete Dye design) will play for The Players next month.

PGA.com: What are some of the holes you expect to give the players the most trouble?

Farabaugh: Hole no. 6 is consistently ranked as one of the 10 toughest holes on Tour. It is a long 90 degree dogleg to the left with water on the left. Holes number four, twelve and fifteen are also real strong tests -- and depending on the wind -- can be really difficult.

PGA.com: Since Hurricane Katrina is now a few years in the rearview mirror, what is your take on the golf industry in the New Orleans area and the Gulf Coast? Have things gotten back to normal?

Farabaugh: It's kind of tough to define normal, but things may never be back to how they were before Katrina. Some of the courses that were here have not re-opened and we're not sure that they will. But overall, we are seeing a real rejuvenation in the region. I know the golf community is excited about playing golf. In fact, 2008 was the most successful year ever for our facility. And this year, even with the economic conditions being what they are, we're tracking similar to how we did in 2008. So we're doing everything we can to be creative, be aggressive, to let consumers know what a great product we have -- and its paying dividends for us.

PGA.com: New Orleans is known for its festive atmosphere, culture, food, and one very special Tuesday each year. What's your favorite thing about New Orleans, and is there anything in the area you would recommend to people visiting to watch the tournament?

Farabaugh: The tournament this week coincides with the The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. That's obviously a great draw for many people. And yes, there are always many reasons to love New Orleans. But I tell you, I'm from here, I grew up here, I know this place better than most -- and the biggest draw we have is the people of this city. The food, the music, the scenery -- all are spectacular. But it's the warmth and welcoming of the people that makes it really special. For our guests this week at the Zurich Classic, you'll definitely experience it.