Thousands of loyal links lovers packed Congressional Country Club in Bethesda for the first round of the U.S. Open on Thursday, sporting sunglasses, fanny packs — and lots and lots of plaid. Many set up camp on a grassy hill near the clubhouse that provided an eagle-eye view of both the 10th and 18th greens, which is where Ryan McGee, of Herndon, was watching the morning action.
McGee made no bones about his allegiance — his face was painted orange, white and green in solidarity with Rory McIlroy, who is actually from Northern Ireland.
But no matter.
“I’m sure I’ll be getting a hard time from the Phil [Mickelson] fans later,” he said. “I’m sure I’ll be louder.”
Thursday’s excitement proved to be too much for at least one man, who collapsed near the 10th hole and was taken to a local hospital, where he was doing well.
But with the Capitals falling short in the playoffs, the Nationals treading water despite a recent hot streak, and the Redskins being, well, the Redskins, locals welcomed the high-profile event to the area — even without Tiger Woods in the field.
“I think the D.C. area is in some kind of need for a championship team or a championship event — and if you can’t get the championship team, you might as well get the championship event,” said Georgetown’s Norman Fekrat, a member of the club.
Others shared the experience with their youngsters.
Bob Stroh of Annandale, back for another Open after attending the last one held at Congressional in 1997, brought his 5-year-old son, Brendan, who was sporting a cap with an autograph from South African golfer Retief Goosen he picked up during a practice round on Tuesday.
“I’ll watch anyone — I love golf,” said the elder Stroh. “You can’t beat the experience, and probably the next time they have one here, he’s going to be not wanting to go with dad.”
A steady flow of fans — including Kenneth Gantt, who has caddied at the club for nearly half a century — also made their way through the merchandise tent hunting for souvenirs.
Though Gantt wasn’t on duty, the prestige of the event lured him to the club.
“This is my life,” he said. “I came here when I was 13 years old. This is family for me.”
