Ryder Cup Reflections from Bethpage Black
Between two work events, we managed to sneak in a bucket-list experience: attending the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black.
Ever since Jason first described Bethpage Black —a “course for the people,” built on a New York state park where golfers camp overnight just for a chance at a tee time—I knew it was a place I wanted to experience. While we didn’t play it this time around, our experience visiting Bethpage Black felt nothing short of an adventure!
Our alarms went off at 1:00 am in the Pocono Mountains. Driving through New York City in the quiet dark, we saw the skyline glowing before heading to Jones Beach to wait for the shuttles. The sheer infrastructure to move 50,000 fans per day was impressive, and the energy at the first tee was unlike anything I’ve felt at a golf event—fun, intense, sometimes excessive, but always unforgettable.
And then, the course.
We walked the course backwards to avoid the crowds. This gave us a rare perspective and an opportunity to admire the undulating greens that punish inaccuracy, massive bunkers with steep tongues, and beautiful fescue rough interplanted with tall grasses that added both challenge and beauty. The darker first cut of bluegrass against the bentgrass fairways and greens created a striking visual contrast—adding both aesthetic appeal and another layer of difficulty for players.
We happened to be in the right place at the right time to watch the parade of fairway mowers in the morning—moving in a perfect “V” formation like migrating birds. Later, while circling hole six, we paused to admire the greens team striping with precision, ensuring the surfaces would hold a 14-inch roll for the afternoon matches. The scale of work and care to maintain such a demanding competition was remarkable.
The natural elevation changes reminded us that this is still a state park at its core—walking it felt more like hiking than being at a country club. And then, an unexpected delight: near the maintenance building, a little free library–style box, filled not with books but envelopes of wildflower and grass seeds. A thoughtful gesture, and I was overjoyed to find such a treasure! I can’t wait to plant a little bit of Bethpage back at Legacy Three. 🌱
The Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black was more than just golf—it was an experience rooted in the heritage of both country and Long Island golf. A deep respect and showcase of the habitat. And a competition of heart, with both teams battling until the very end.
I hope to return to Bethpage Black and caddy for Jason someday. Playing it? I’ll leave that to those far more skilled—and far braver—than me.
