Golfers with disabilities have their own version of the Ryder Cup known as the Cairns Cup. Similar to the traditional Ryder Cup, Team USA competes against Team Europe every two years. The most recent edition took place in 2022 at The Shire London, where Team USA achieved a remarkable victory with a score of 21 to 3.
Looking ahead, the 2024 edition of the Cairns Cup will be held at the Cherry Creek Golf Club in Detroit, Michigan, USA. Taking place from July 27th to August 3rd, this event will mark a significant milestone as it will be the first time that both teams are led by women. Kim Moore will serve as the captain for Team USA, while Tineke Loogman will lead Team Europe.
Kim Moore, a PGA professional, has been coaching the women’s golf team at Western Michigan University since 2020. She has an impressive track record, having won the inaugural US Adaptive Open held at Pinehurst no. 6. Additionally, Moore was a member of Team USA in 2022, the current holders of the Cairns Cup.
Tineke Loogman, hailing from the Netherlands, was crowned European Champion in 2006 and served as the Vice Captain for Team Europe in 2022. The team selection process was guided by specific criteria: players from 6 different states/nations, players with 6 different types of disabilities, 6 players with a handicap ranging from 0 to 10.4 (with only 4 having a handicap below 5.4), 6 players with a handicap ranging from 10.5 to 18.4, 2 players with a handicap ranging from 18.5 to 24.4, and 2 players with a handicap ranging from 24.5 to 36.4.
An exciting addition to Team Europe for the first time is José Bagnarelli from Italy, who has our full support. The complete lineup for Team Europe includes Tineke Loogman as the captain, Kris Aves and Frans Harmsen as vice-captains, and a roster of talented golfers from various European countries.
On the other side, Team USA will be led by Kim Moore as the captain, with Kellie Valentine and Jonathon Snyder serving as vice-captains. The team consists of skilled golfers from different states across the United States.
The Cairns Cup is a testament to the inclusivity and talent present in the world of golf, showcasing the abilities of golfers with disabilities on a global stage.
According to the Source tennisworldusa.org