Team USA Triumphs in Cairns Cup at Cherry Creek
Shelby Township, MI – Team USA emerged victorious at the 2024 Cairns Cup, held at Cherry Creek Golf Club in Shelby Township, Michigan. The biennial event, renowned as "Disability Golf's Premier Match Play Event," showcased the talents of adaptive golfers from the United States and Europe. Despite challenging weather conditions, including heavy rain and intense heat, the American team held off a fierce challenge from their European counterparts to win with a score of 12.5 to 11.5. The tournament featured various match play formats over three days, including singles, foursomes, and four-ball matches, with Team USA securing the win in a dramatic final round.
The competition began with Team USA taking a 4-2 lead after the first day's foursomes. However, Europe fought back on the second day, narrowing the deficit to a single point. Heading into the final day, Team USA needed 5.5 points to retain the Cup and 6 points for outright victory. The turning point came during a brief interruption for lightning, after which Team USA surged ahead, culminating in Brandon Williams sinking the decisive putt to secure the win. Williams' calm demeanor under pressure epitomized the team's resilience and determination.
When asked how he felt about securing his country's win on home soil, he said, "Amazing, it's awesome!" Commenting further on the win, he said, "It is a dream come true! This event has demonstrated that the world of disability golf now has its own stage to grow the game of golf."
Under the adept leadership of Captain Kim Moore and Vice Captains Kellie Valentine and Jonathan Snyder (USAGA Executive Director), the American team delivered standout performances. The roster also included notable players Brian Bemis, Jeremy Bittner, Amy Bockerstette (I GOT THIS Foundation), Steve Doudt, Kevin Holland (USAGA Coach), Greg Hooper, Sophia Howard, Kelsey Koch, Evan Mathias (USAGA Coach), Tracy Ramin (USAGA Coach), Jason Rose, Brandon Williams, and Marcus Williams.
The Cairns Cup continues to be a premier platform for promoting adaptive golf, celebrating the exceptional skills and achievements of golfers with disabilities. The event will return to Europe in 2026, promising more exciting competition and international camaraderie.
