The Solheim Cup is a professional tournament held every-other year for professional female golfers. Golfers are placed onto two teams – the European team and the American team. It rivals the men’s Ryder Cup, which is played in the same format. This year’s event was recently held in West Des Moines, Iowa at the Des Moines Golf and Country Club.
United States Victorious
The United States emerged victorious for the second time in a row, winning the event 16 ½ to 11 ½. Every American golfer won at least one match during the tournament. Only two American golfers had losing records, compared to eight European golfers.
The Americans won by instilling a team spirit. Cristie Kerr described how U.S. Captain Juli Inkster inspired the team. Kerr said, “You play for the person in front of you. You play for the person behind you. And it’s not about your individual records. It’s for the team. It’s amazing how hard you can pull for each other when you have that mentality.” Inkster is very well-liked by team members as she encourages fun and pushes her golfers to strive for greatness.
Stacy Lewis said of Inkster, “She hasn’t doubted us in four years. I think that confidence rubs off on us. And it was a different feel in the air. We knew what to expect. We knew what we were going to do. And we were going to go play great golf. There was never a doubt, and I think a lot of that comes from your captain.”
A Thrilling Watch
More people tune in for the Ryder Cup than they do the Solheim Cup, which is troubling. The Solheim was a riveting event that featured highly-competitive golf. The LPGA has been growing in popularity, but it still lacks behind the PGA Tour.
Inkster told reporters, “I think as women golfers we always get shortchanged and it irks me. Even from the PGA Tour down, I just don’t think we really get the respect we deserve. And hopefully things start to change, especially in sponsorships. I just don’t understand how all these companies get away with supporting PGA Tour events and not supporting the LPGA. And it makes me a little upset, because I think we’ve got a great product and I think the golf is fantastic. I think we deserve our due.”
European Captain Annika Sorenstam offered her own thoughts, stating, “The game elevated to a level I’ve never seen, and I think we should be very proud of women’s golf. And I hope people witnessed this because this was a real show.”
Looking For Competitive Women’s Golf?
If watching the Solheim Cup fired up your competitive spirit, then you’re in luck! Female golfers of all ages and abilities are welcome, as the only requirement to join is that you play to a maximum Handicap Index Limit of 40.4, or score a 115 or better.Joining the club will also enroll you in the Women’s Public Links Golf Association of Southern California.
If you are interested in joining, contact Membership Chairperson Helen Hofmann at 818-889-6138. The club plays at 8:00 AM on Tuesday and Thursday.