2008 Ryder Cup

Jeanne and I took a few days off from elk hunting to go to the 2008 Ryder Cup in Louisville, KY. Our longtime friend, Kenny Perry, had qualified for his second Ryder Cup. Kenny courageously set his goal this year to make the Ryder Cup team. At 48 years old most people did not give him a chance at the beginning of the season. Well he proved them all wrong and won three tournaments including the Memorial which is hosted by Jack Nicklaus at Murifield Village. Kenny wanted to play in his home state of Kentucky at Valhalla where the Ryder Cup was being hosted. Well play he did! He valiantly carried the USA to victory. He won his singles match against the young and strapping Henrik Stenson of Sweden on Sunday. It was exciting to watch as the veteran Kenny made 7 birdies to beat Stenson 3 and 2. Kenny has been a fixture in our family for 22 years. He has stayed at my parents house for 22 years while playing in the Phoenix Open. When I was 13 he allowed me to ride to the golf course with him and follow him around like a puppy dog. He could have easily said that he was too busy but he never did. He has shown through the years that he is a great man. His deep rooted faith in Jesus is clearly evident in his everyday life. It was awesome watching the Kentucky fans greet and embrace their native son. He received rowdy cheers at every hole and was followed by many friends and family. I have been to over 30 PGA tour events as a spectator and caddie including the Masters and I can honestly say the Ryder Cup was truly an experience that I will never forget. The electricity in the air is incredible and it is something I highly recommend doing for all golf fans. To Kenny Perry, I say job well done in the 2008 Ryder Cup and thanks for giving us someone to cheer on for 22 years!