From tee box to green, Team Europe captain Annika Sorenstam walked all 18 holes that will make up the Solheim Cup Championship Course at Des Moines Golf and Country Club in West Des Moines, Iowa.
“Pete Dye is one of the known architects in the world so I know this is going to be a great test I think. The course seemed to be in great shape today,” said Sorenstam.
Des Moines Golf and Country Club features one of Iowa’s premiere courses. Recent expansions and renovations resulted in a facility with 36 unique holes. The layout will enable both the Solheim Cup and PING Junior Solheim Cup to be played at the same location for the first time in the United States.
In addition to touring the course Sorenstam also inspected the team locker rooms, hotel and meeting facilities which will host the 12-member team from Europe. For the legendary golfer, who won 93 professional tournaments, 10 majors and was the first woman ever to shoot 59 during a 16-year career, Sorenstam’s inaugural visit to Des Moines and West Des Moines was one of many steps she’s taking to prepare for the 2017 matchup between Team USA and Team Europe.
“For me right now it’s getting used to the captain’s role and getting to know the players a little bit on a personal level,” said Sorenstam. “Of course I’m watching golf every weekend to see what some of the players are doing. I’ve got a bit of a watch list that I pay close attention to.”
Sorenstam has chosen two of her vice-captains for the 2017 Solheim Cup. Marta Figueras-Dotti and Catriona Matthew will help Sorenstam navigate the intense team competition that arises during the match-play tournament. The trio will face off against Team USA Captain Juli Inkster and her assistant captains Pat Hurst, Wendy Ward and Nancy Lopez August 14-20, 2017.
“The atmosphere is nothing like any other golf tournament.” said Annika. “I welcome you to show up and get a feel for it. It won’t be your last if you do show up.”
Watch Annika Sorenstam lead Team Europe in its effort to reclaim the Solheim Cup from Team USA. Get your tickets now for the 2017 Solheim Cup August 14-20, 2017.
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