Terror on the Green

Opening tee shot tomorrow in the Ryder Cup...where's the Maalox plus? Gulp

If there is actual terror in professional sports, the next three days on the links in Illinois will be its home.

The 39th running of the biennial (every two years) golf's version of waterboarding, known as The Ryder Cup, gets underway at Medinah CC in suburban Chicago tomorrow for three excruciatingly dramatic days. 

The Ryder Cup pits the best 12 European golfers against the best 12 American golfers in the world.  The uber-talented golfers are the show but don't tell that to the rabid fans who writhe in pain or exude with joy on every shot. 

The spectators have taken over this event and has made it intensely personal to whatever side of the Atlantic one resides. In television or on site, the fans rule at the Ryder Cup.  Count the number of flags and patriotic chants along the way.  You'd think you're at the World Cup final in Brazil. But this lasts three full days all over the world!

If you don't believe me tune in tomorrow on ESPN at 8:20A EST to see balls in the air or on the ground off the first tee.

The opening tee shot in the Ryder Cup is THE most terrifying shot a professional attempts to hit successfully in his entire career including Opens, Masters whatever...  It's for country not wallet.  That means everything. Pride is still alive in America and Europe. These players desire exceptionalism. It's in their DNA. And, it's personal too!  For the four American rookies, Snedeker, Dufner, Bradley and Simpson, they best strap on their big boys pants Friday morning for what lies ahead of them. It will be a war.

Past Ryder Cuppers have stated they are so nervous on the First Tee that it helps to keep their eyes closed and keep breath held until impact.  "Be the ball", he whispers.  "And hope to God I can find it out there...somewhere playable."  Certain applause or disgust awaits from the boisterous crowd depending on the result and one's allegiance.

So enjoy the show and say a wee prayer for these mortal men who play a game following 1.68" of a white dimpled ball on a stage of global sublime insanity.

Cheers.