Lupica On Presidents Cup

presidents cup.jpgMike Lupica says the Presidents Cup is better than the Ryder Cup.

 

I know, I know, even the suggestion that what was invented as another made-for-TV special event is better than the event it blatantly ripped off is something that is supposed to make old Ryder spin in his grave—though probably not the kind of spin you'd get with modern technology.

But I'm right about this.

Ah, the humility.

 

He goes on to present two utterly ridiculous reasons: the star power of the International team, starting with Ernie Els (oops). And the star power of captains Nicklaus and Player.

President's Picks

presidents cup.jpgDo the President's Cup Captain's picks make a statement about the depth of American golf?

Mind you, these are all great players. But U.S. Captain Jack Nicklaus basically had this group of players to choose from (Captain's picks in italics):

Justin Leonard
Zach Johnson
Chad Campbell
Ted Purdy
Fred Couples
Joe Ogilvie
Bart Bryant
Again, all fine players, great patriots, devoted husbands, wonderful humanitarians, etc.  But consider Gary Player's options:
Peter Lonard
Shigeki Maruyama
K.J. Choi
Stephen Ames
Geoff Ogilvy
Steve Elkington
Rory Sabbatini
Trevor Immelman
Based on recent play, Ogilvy and Sabbatini would be tough to pass up, while Elkington's record in the Cup would have made him a fine choice. Lonard and Immelman aren't exactly slouches, though Immelman was way down the points list.

Truth be told, the only reason I post this is to generate some enthusiasm for the President's Cup. Right now, it's tough to even think about sitting down and watching Robert Trent Jones Golf Club for more than ten minutes.