A Good Walk Spoiled: Adventures in Golf

Empire State of Match-Play — 2025 Ryder Cup Preview & The Mystique of Bethpage Black


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The Ryder Cup is heading to New York, and the spotlight is squarely on Bethpage Black—America’s most famous muni with the most intimidating welcome sign in golf.

In this solo episode, Scott Poniewaz (@pony_golf) breaks down the 2025 captains—Keegan Bradley for Team USA and Luke Donald for Team Europe—what their leadership styles mean, and how each side can squeeze points on a course built to test nerve and execution. Then we dive deep into Bethpage Black’s history, Golden Age architecture, and the exact holes most likely to swing matches when the crowds get loud.

You’ll get a practical fan guide for attending (LIRR tips, best vantage points, food recs) and a clear picture of how match play changes the strategy on a demanding championship layout. Scott closes with what he’s watching for on Friday morning and an early prediction for Sunday’s outcome.

What you’ll learn

  • How Bradley and Donald will shape pairings, chemistry, and course strategy
  • Why Bethpage Black’s routing, bunkering, and elevated greens are perfect for match play
  • The specific holes to circle: 1, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 15, 17, and 18
  • Fan logistics: getting there, where to post up, and local eats near the park
  • Early storylines and a measured prediction for the week
  • Links & follow

    • Instagram: @pony_golf
    • Share your Ryder Cup takes and Bethpage plans via DM

    • Here are some links to @Pony_Golf: https://linktr.ee/ponygolf

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      Key topics: Ryder Cup 2025, Bethpage Black, Keegan Bradley, Luke Donald, New York golf, A.W. Tillinghast, match play strategy, foursomes vs fourball, golf architecture, public golf, Long Island, Farmingdale, PGA, Team USA, Team Europe

      #RyderCup #BethpageBlack #GolfPodcast #GolfArchitecture #MatchPlay #TeamUSA #TeamEurope #NewYorkGolf #PublicGolf #PonyGolf


      Note: Rosters and pairings evolve—this preview reflects the most current outlook at time of recording.

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      A Good Walk Spoiled: Adventures in GolfBy Scott Poniewaz (@Pony_Golf)