University of Minnesota Athletics
Gophers Reflect on Ryder Cup
10/7/2016 12:00:00 AM | Women's Golf
The eyes of the golf world descended on Hazeltine National Golf Club as the state of Minnesota hosted its first Ryder Cup last weekend.
The Gophers got the rare opportunity to see world-class golfers at the peak of their game compete for one of golf's top honors. GopherSports.com caught up with senior Emie Peronnin, junior Sabrine Garrison, freshman Christine Portillo and head coach Michele Redman to talk about their experience.
What did you think of the environment?
Sabrine Garrison: The environment at the Ryder Cup during the practice round was lively and full of anticipation. You could feel the pride from both the American's and Europeans.
Emie Peronnin: It was electric and the golf course was amazing.
Christine Portillo: I thought the environment was so enjoyable. The Ryder Cup brings the biggest golf fans from around the world together for a unique and exciting experience. The crowds were amazing! The rivalry of the USA and Europe teams creates a very competitive and exciting atmosphere, and to have that right here in Minnesota was quite special!
Michele Redman: I was very surprised how many people were there and how the event has evolved over the years.
What's one moment that really stands out from your experience there?
SG: The moment that stood out the most to me was the moment I walked into the grounds and could barely recognize that I was even at a golf course with all the stand and people. It was such a huge event and very cool to be apart of.
EP: Meeting so many European fellow that came from oversea to cheer out Team!
CP: Watching the players do their practice rounds was very interesting to watch, because they were hitting many different types of shots from all over the golf course while being fairly relaxed. They were engaging with the crowds so that is always nice to see. There happened to be a celebrity golf tournament going on as well while we visited, so my highlight was watching Michael Phelps hit a drive straight down the fairway.
MR: The amount of people and the enthusiasm from the crowd.
What do you think it means for Minnesota golf to have such a high-profile event here?
SG: I think the Ryder Cup here means a lot to Minnesota golf. It was a great opportunity to showcase the quality of Minnesota golf courses and encourage people to see more Northern states as places to golf despite the weather.
EP: I think it will help people realize how big of a golf culture there is in Minnesota. Minnesota have so many high quality golf course and Hazeltine is only one of many. Hopefully people will realize we don't play snow golf 10months a year and will be more willing to come to Minnesota to play golf.
CP: The Ryder Cup provided a great deal of exposure to the state of Minnesota and Hazeltine National!
MR: It was great to see Minnesota on such a big stage. We had great weather to showcase and it shows we can host a golf event of this magnitude.
Do you prefer match play or stroke play?
SG: I don't prefer match play over stroke play. I believe they are both great games and simply offer different ways to compete.
EP: Match play definitely, my game is more aggressive and I can be more risky and creative with some shots knowing that if I take a risk that cost me a high score well it could only take one hole to come back from it.
CP: Match play, because you are able to win without having a lower amount of strokes than the other person. It creates a unique scenario because it only matters how many holes you actually win!
MR: I prefer to play stroke play but love watching match play.
What did you tell your friends and family about having the Ryder Cup so close to campus?
SG: I was very excited to have the Ryder Cup so close to campus. I know most of my friends and family were very jealous. I told them that it was a great experience to see some of the best golfers in the world and something that I will always remember.
EP: Didn't have to say anything just went Facebook live and made everyone jealous.
BP: I told my friends and family how awesome it was to be able to drive less than 30 minutes to get to see all of the best professional golfers in the world. To see true success right in front of me in my own state was very motivating and an unreal experience. I have personally played Hazeltine National many times, so it was very cool to say that I have played the same course that the Ryder Cup took place on!
MR: The Ryder Cup is an experience to be go to and be a part of.
Anything else you'd like to add?
EP: In two years I will be at the Ryder cup at home in France. As I go home I know the cup will come home too.
MR: Just a great week for Minnesota and golf.
