Ryder Cup officials announced Wednesday increased security measures for Friday’s play at Bethpage Black, with U.S. President Donald Trump scheduled to attend the event.
Spectators are “strongly urged to arrive as early as possible” and should plan for extra time in their schedules. The enhanced security includes additional screening at entrances, with “TSA-style screening points” implemented around the clubhouse, adjacent grandstand and surrounding areas.
Gates open at 5 a.m. EDT, more than two hours before the first foursomes match tees off at 7:10 a.m. in Farmingdale, New York.
Trump isn’t expected on site until the afternoon fourball session, according to GolfChannel.com senior writer Rex Hoggard’s report on “Live From the Ryder Cup.”
Officials warned that “guests should expect temporary delays moving around publicly accessible areas inside and outside of the Bethpage Black Golf Course.” They added that “these areas may briefly become restricted or frozen spaces before, during or after the event.”
This comes after Trump’s appearance at the men’s tennis U.S. Open final earlier this month created significant logistical challenges. His attendance at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing led to congestion, lengthy waits for fans, and a 30-minute delay to the start of the match. Many spectators were forced to watch the beginning of the final on big screens outside the stadium.
The PGA of America’s early announcement appears aimed at preventing similar disruptions at Bethpage. The advance notice gives fans more time to adjust their plans accordingly.
A list of prohibited items can be found on the official Ryder Cup website.
