Change of plans in the Ryder Cup. It is not a minor change. The opening ceremony, usually scheduled for Thursday afternoon, the day before the start of the competition, has been moved forward to Wednesday. The explanation lies in the weather forecast.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the forecast has worsened as the hours have passed. On Thursday, especially in the afternoon, rain is expected and, above all, winds that could reach 60 kilometres per hour, as well as the possible formation of storms that would require the evacuation of the course. Perhaps this is why a Ryder Cup has never been held in New York City until now…
Rain is also expected on Wednesday, but it seems to be isolated showers without an electrical component, so it seems more likely that the opening ceremony can take place with some normality. The event, which includes speeches from the two captains as well as the presentation of the teams, will begin at four in the afternoon, local time, ten at night in mainland Spain.
The organisers, to avoid further inconvenience, have decided that Thursday’s tickets will also be valid for entry on Wednesday, so tomorrow there will be a high-spirited atmosphere at Bethpage.
What does not change is the schedule for the announcement of the pairs that will play in the first session of foursomes on Friday. It will take place on Thursday at four in the afternoon, also local time, although the location is yet to be determined. That lovely tradition of seeing the different pairs stand up during the opening ceremony to greet the public when chosen will be lost. It also prompted the first chants from the fans.
In any case, what can be anticipated is that it is going to be a very wet Ryder Cup, although the risk of thunderstorms decreases significantly from Friday afternoon. Right now, the official report points to a noticeable improvement in the weather over the weekend. Good news.
