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    PGA competitors were in for a surprise during a practice round at a South Carolina course on Wednesday. What was supposed to be a professional tournament looked more like a game of mini golf, complete with obstacle courses and golf-ball-eating animals. According to the (U.K.) Daily Mail, a playful alligator was spotted hanging out in the waters at the Ocean Course on Kiawah Island.

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    STAY AWAY FROM MY BALL 

    Pro golfer Davis Love III even took time to walk over and greet the lurking amphibious animal, giving him a warning to stay away from his ball. But alligators aren't the only distractions at the Ocean Course. It's one of the few top clubs to use paspalum grass on their course. 

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    THE GRASS IS ALWAYS GREENER 

    Many golfers are unfamiliar with playing on paspalum grass. It's used because of upkeep problems caused by the Atlantic Ocean. However, some golfers are more accustomed to this type of grass, giving them an advantage. That includes Rory McIlroy, the 2011 U.S. Open champion. He plays on this type of grass at the Bear's Club in Florida. He believes that it gives him more of a grip.

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    THE TIGER AND THE ALLIGATOR 

    Tiger Woods is also excited to play at the alligator-filled course, not necessarily because of the loitering water creatures, but because of the grass. "Having paspalum greens is different. I've only played on paspalum greens one time. But they drain great. They are going to be firm." 

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    ALLIGATOR AUDIENCE 

    What grass each golfer prefers will vary, but one thing is for sure: they will likely have an encounter with at least one alligator. 

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    Next: Animals in Unusual Places

    JUDGING EYES 

    No one was harmed by the alligator during Wednesday's round, and they should not prove to be a threat this weekend when the PGA Championship is held at the course. We suspect the gator will merely be watching and judging each golfer's game.