The weather smiled on golfing greats from around the world as they battled in teams against each other for the prestigious Presidents Cup on Nov 17 to 20.
The Presidents Cup is an international golf event which began from the germ of an idea in 1990 to become one of the most popular international sporting events.
This year it was hosted for the second time by the Royal Melbourne Golf Club with an estimated 600 million viewers. The first time was in 1998 with 138 million viewers.
Excitement was high as twenty four of the world’s best golfers from six countries—Australia, South Korea, Japan, South Africa, New Zealand and America—battled it out on the fairways and greens of the superb Australian course.
The two teams consisted of 12 top players each, with the International Team featuring players from five countries working together to battle against the U.S. Team. International Team Captain’s Assistant Frank Nobilo found that playing in a team is a unique experience.
“When twelve play as one, it’s amazing what can be done and that’s why it rates at the top of the tree for me,” said Mr Nobilo.
Aaron Badderley, an Australian playing for the International Team, says he valued the camaderie of cheering on his teammates from around the world.
“The team is awesome, being part of the boys and being together as a group. I’m excited to be able to go out there and play but also I’m excited to go out and cheer them on,” he said.
Hunter Mahan, U.S. Team Player, says the atmosphere among all the players was friendly and “a lot of fun.”
“To come here and be part of this, it’s great it’s fun. Just to hang out with the guys everybody drops their guard a little bit and you get to see each player and each guy in a little different light,” said Mr Mahan.
The team competition, which is held every two years, is extremely popular with golf fans as it provides six days of high-class golf.
“It’s a beautiful day. What more would you want to do than come and watch the Presidents Cup and watch all those wonderful golfers?” said one Australian golf fan.
U.S. Team player Phil Mickelson says he could feel the Aussie crowd’s enthusiasm for the sport.
“The excitement level amongst the people here in Australia has been one of the highest that I’ve seen,” said U.S. Team player Phil Mickelson. “The support that we are having this week is pretty impressive.”
One of the biggest stars of show was U.S. Team Player Tiger Woods, who was back in the game again showing his golf prowess after recent poor health.
“I’m finally healthy, so it’s good to be healthy and be able to practice and play,” said Mr Woods.
A unique feature of this annual sporting event is that players donate all money earned to a charity of their own choice. Over $23 million has been distributed to different charities in fifteen countries since 1994.
“We are trying obviously to do the right thing and help out as much as we can,” said Mr Woods.
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