2008 RYDER CUP

Last year I asked our head pro at the golf course if he could get me some tickets to the 2008 Ryder Cup. Well, he came thru in fine fashion. He was able to get me four tickets for all of the practice rounds, opening ceremony and the 3 days of the tournament. Myself and 3 other guys went out to Louisville, Kentucky last Tuesday. We were able to play 3 rounds of golf at various courses in the area. We didn't go to the Tuesday or Wednesday practice rounds, but did attend the opening ceremony on Thursday. We then went to all 3 days of the tournament. That was the neatest golf sporting event ever, especially sine the USA pulled off an upset and won the tournament and were able to return the cup to the USA. The crowds were massive. On Friday and Saturday, there were 4 matches in the morning and 4 matches in the afternoon. So, you can imagine the size of the crowds trying to follow 4 groups of golfers - it was insane. The said there were 35,000+ spectators in attendance. We ended up just sitting in the bleaches around the 8th hole and watching the groups come through. They sold little portable radios that you could listen to the broadcast on ESPN or BBC (British Broadcasting). The British broadcasters were a lot more entertaining to listen to than the EPSN guys.

Sunday's matches were a little more spread out. There were 12 matches on Sunday, so we were able to more around a little bit easier. Near the end of the tournament, when it looked like the USA could win it, the crowds near the finishing holes were enormous. The roars whenever an American golfer made a winning shot were so loud it was almost deafening.

The trip was even more memorable for me because on Monday, I made my first hole-in-one. It only took 35+ years, but I got it done. We even got to see the ball go in the cup. I don't remember my initial reaction, but I do remember throwing my club in the air and letting out a big hoot. Pretty neat.

We finally got home late Monday night.