Ryder Cup Shop Offers Taste For Those Without Tickets
CHASKA, Minn. (WCCO) – The Ryder Cup is officially open to the public Friday. The golfers won't take the course until next week but there's plenty to do before then.
The 50,000 square foot merchandise tent shop opened Friday to a long line and it's been a steady flow of crowds since.
Ryder Cup tickets were difficult to get, but this weekend people can enjoy the merchandise shop from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There's no ticket required and parking is free.
"There's nothing better than opening the doors and finally allowing the spectators and shoppers in," said merchandising director Mike Quirk.
It took the last five weeks to build all that's inside the Ryder Cup shopping tent -- Quirk says it fits a football field inside, but it's of course all about golf.
"We wanted to come out here, we wish we could be here for the Ryder Cup, but this is the next best thing," said shopper Donna Fritz
Donna and Max Fritz traveled up from South Carolina.
"We were hoping just to come to get a shirt. We didn't know all this was going to be here. My daughter-in-law found it online," Donna said.
For those who are close to home like the Hagen family from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, being here still feels like vacation.
"This is our number five child and number six on the way and to be quite honest, not a lot of golfing going on these days," said Eric Hagen.
A welcomed chance to get out and explore as a family.
"It's a lot bigger once you're here, that's for sure," Hagen said.
A lot to see, fitting for an event that'll capture the world's attention for 10 days.
"I think it's just a small taste of what's coming next week," said Quirk.
Shoppers say prices are very reasonable and comparable to other sports shops.
Anyone with practice game tickets on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday can bring two children up to age 17 for free.
Military members can come for free and bring a guest during those practice days as well.