Stacy Lewis, as captain of the team she led from the beginning, wanted her team to have a solid understanding of and appreciation for the past. It is hoped that the passion for which so many people have been passionate for this event over the years will be passed on to the next generation.
Lewis, who was appointed captain, said: “I had Meg Mallon and Juli Inkster and that age group of players. They brought that to me.” “I saw the passion they had for the event and I wanted to pass that on to my assistants and myself. I also want them to be passionate about this event. That’s the most important thing I want to achieve.”
On the bottom of the bag of each player, you’ll find a yellow duck. The number “88” is on the back.
Team USA hats inscribed with “88” to honor Kathy Whitworth. (Courtesy photo)
The “88” was created in honor of Kathy Whitworth. Her 88 LPGA championships are a record which may never be broken. Whitworth, who passed away on Christmas Eve last year, led Team USA to the first Solheim Cup victory in 1990.
Solheim Cup: Photos
The yellow duck was created in memory of Shirley Spork who founded the LPGA and died in April last year. Spork was a passionate Solheim Cup fan who even made the trip to Scotland at age 92 in 2019.
Spork would often look for ducks while she was playing with her to take her mind of the competition. This strategy allowed her to relax.
Anyone know why @SolheimCupUSA has a duck on their bags? @mpressel @TomAbbottGC @KayCockrell6238 @GolfweekNichols Any ideas? pic.twitter.com/cjxz9ZdhiK
— Gemma @gbruce14 18 September 2023
Spork has had goosebumps at the Old Course, Turnberry and other places.
Spork said in 2019: “That was my Solheim, because every time they played the national anthem and raised the American flag on the first hole, that was mine.” “That was really something special to me.”
Spork would ask fans to donate shillings at the end each session for junior golf. Spork’s main concern was to grow the game.
Lewis said, “This event is everything for our Tour.” “It is everything for women’s Golf.”
