Ryder Cup 2014 Daily Update: Friday September 26

It’s finally here, the first day of Ryder Cup 2014 matches…

Early this morning before the sun came up our Premier Golf clients boarded their buses to see Phil, Rickie, Bubba and the boys take on Rory, Sergio, Ian and their bunch of lads. Let’s just say, some of our clients went all out to support the U.S.A. team. From custom red, white and blue kilts to Loudmouth American flag pants and all sorts of pins and hats, we showed the Europeans we’re in Scotland to cheer loud and bring home the Cup.

Upon arrival, the crowds were expectedly huge. The biggest throng was at the 8:20 tee time in the four-ball match between Phil Mickelson and Keegan Bradley and Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia. With the crowd encircling the tee and lining the fairways to the green almost ten people deep it was as if you walked into a soccer game and people were playing golf. The electric atmosphere at the Ryder Cup is unique in the game of golf. No regular PGA TOUR tournament or Major is quite like the Ryder Cup.

In fact, our president Jim Ward says you can’t watch the Ryder Cup on-site like you would a regular tournament. “There are fewer players and a lot more fans at each hole,” says Ward. “It helps to stay in one location or a few different set locations throughout the day and let the matches come to you. Make sure your viewing area has access to a leader board. He continues, “It’s a great idea to formulate a viewing strategy before you ever set foot on the grounds. While it might be intimidating for first-timers, once you understand the differences and adjust to them, you’re ready to enjoy one of the world’s best and most dramatic sports events.”

The day was full of surprises. Rookies Jordan Spieth and Patrick Reed took out heavy favorites Ian Poulter and Stephen Gallacher, a Scotsman and local favorite, in a huge upset for the Americans. Phil and Keegan also won their match in dramatic fashion when Lefty sank a 2-footer for birdie on the 18th.

We’ll see what the rest of day holds and whether or not the Americans can keep the lead they established in the morning session. U.S.A., U.S.A., U.S.A…