Ryder Cup Decided in Dramatic Playoff.

 

The Ryder Cup came back with a bang this weekend as 24 eager participants competed in an epic battle sure to live on in TCC folklore for years, maybe decades, to come. The greens rolled fast, the wind swirled unpredictably, and the banter flowed thick and fast as Team Jones took on Team Aldred.

Saturday began with a scramble, and both teams had their moments early as birdie roars rippled through the grounds. But by the midway point on day one, the teams were neck and neck, tied at 3 points each.

Saturday afternoon featured the best ball format, with tension mounting as players settled in. Travis Aldred made birdie on the final hole of his afternoon match, leading from the front to earn his team a crucial ½ point, keeping the teams locked at 6 – 6 after two nine-hole rounds of play.

In the alternate shot on Sunday, Team Jones inched ahead, but only just. Rich Metcalf captured a third point on the way to a flawless four-point weekend – he shook off some controversial wardrobe decisions to become the most productive golfer of the Ryder Cup. With just singles to come, Team Jones led 9 ½ – 8 ½.

Almost inevitably, Team Aldred roared back. They posted the first few points of the late stages, and for a while it looked like they might win decisively. But when the titanic struggle between low-handicappers Keith Beaver and Mario Mason ended with spoils shared, the table was set for further drama.

Two days. Four different nine-hole formats. 15 – 15. Still no winner. Playoff time.

Ultimately, it was Team Jones who would prevail. In the playoff, Captain Jones called his own number, returned his flip-flops to the car, and held his nerve to make par on the first playoff hole sealing victory for his team.

All in all, a fantastic weekend of golf and camaraderie.

Thank you to Gerald for running such a seamless tournament and to Brian for having the course in such immaculate shape. Thanks to captains Brian Jones and Travis Aldred for the time and consideration that goes into selecting teams and matchups – you guys did a phenomenal job. And thanks to everyone who participated with such enthusiasm.