Ryder Cup draws massive crowds to New York's Bethpage State Park
- Thousands of volunteers from various states and countries are arriving at Bethpage State Park in preparation for the Ryder Cup.
- An estimated 50,000 spectators are expected each day, prompting organizers to enhance transportation and parking solutions.
- This event is viewed as not only an economic opportunity for New York but also a point of pride for local residents.
The Ryder Cup is a significant golfing event occurring at Bethpage State Park in New York, drawing over 250,000 spectators. Scheduled for next week, volunteers from various states and countries have begun arriving with the aim of ensuring a smooth event. The 4,300 volunteers include individuals from 46 states and 28 countries, all prepared to contribute to what many are calling the Super Bowl of professional golf. New York volunteer Robert Heuer expressed a commitment to eliminating hazards and improving the aesthetics of the venue, highlighting the community's dedication to hosting a successful event. As the tournament approaches, governors and local officials are emphasizing the economic implications of the Ryder Cup for Long Island, with a strong sense of pride in showcasing New York. Governor Kathy Hochul underscored that the event is not just a financial opportunity but also a matter of pride for New Yorkers, as it will attract global attention. Local residents are finding ways to profit from the influx of visitors, with many renting their homes and driveways to accommodate the large crowds expected to descend on the area. Given the anticipated attendance of 50,000 spectators on each tournament day, event organizers are implementing transportation strategies due to a lack of public parking at the park. Spectators are encouraged to utilize the Long Island Rail Road, which is increasing train services for the event and offering a special event ticket. Those opting to drive must park at designated locations and take a shuttle to the golf course, ensuring a better experience for attendees. In this year’s Ryder Cup, the teams consist of six automatic qualifiers based on mid-August standings, alongside six captain's picks made by Captain Keegan Bradley. Notable selections for the United States team include Justin Thomas and Collin Morikawa, among others. Historically, the U.S. has won the Ryder Cup 27 times but has faced stiff competition, with Europe currently leading the series since the format change in 1979. The combination of dedicated volunteers, robust transportation plans, and prideful local sentiment aims to make this Ryder Cup a memorable success for New York.