A Truly Historic Golf Tournament
It was always going to be an historic event for Wales, and Newport in particular, but no-one could have predicted the pendulous nature of play between the Americans and the Euaropeans at this year's Ryder Cup. After a devastating opening salvo of quality plays, the Americans scored an early lead. Perhaps as if to show patriotic displeasure, the clouds opened and there was, what commentators understatedly referred to as "lots of rain".
In fact the rain was so heavy that for sections of the tournament play had to be postponed with players and spectators alike taking shelter in the tented village. Fortunately the Celtic Manor is an outstanding resort that was more than able to cater for the nearly 300,000 golf-hungry fans. Eventually the clamour for a return to golfing action paid off - the skies relented, at least for a time, and the golf resumed.
Spurred on by this change in climatic fortunes, the Europeans truly stepped up a gear. By the end of the weekend things were looking decidedly optimistic for them, with the Americans trailing behind. However, so much time had been lost due to the poor weather that the historic decision was taken to run the tournament over to a fourth and final day. Whilst naturally this disappointed some spectators who had to leave the resort, to travel back home to return to work, most people were understanding; after all, rain in Wales in October is hardly a rare occurrence!
The final matches were played with zeal and enthusiasm as the Americans tried to claw back victory from the Europeans. Alas, in the end, the lead was too much for them and Monty's team was victorious!
Medic 1 was able to step up to the challenge of this landmark event and ensure that our reputation for delivering an exceptional level of first aid and patient care was well deserved. The rain posed many challenges, both for spectators and our staff - who had to struggle with very muddy terrain. Nevertheless, it was noted by several well placed authorities that Medic 1 staff reacted quickly and efficiently when needed, reaching patients within just a few minutes or even seconds. Of course the focus of the event was, and should be, the outstanding golf but with around 300,000 people in one space - almost the equivalent of the population of Cardiff! - there were bound to be a few issues. Medic 1 is proud of our staff and how they treated patients swiftly and professionally so that they could return to watching the golf as soon as possible.
The Medic 1 team used for this event was the largest to date and represented a significant boost to the Anglesey area from which most of our staff were drawn. It was a pleasure working with people from so many different backgrounds to ensure that spectators were properly cared for if in need, and that the Ryder Cup was historic and memorable for the right reasons!
Medic 1 wants to thank all of our staff for exceptional performance throughout the event. Medic 1 also wants to thank all of the people and organisations we have worked with to ensure the event was so successful. In weeks to come there will be the opportunity to look for lessons to learn for next time - because after this amazing event Medic 1 is confident that Wales has put itself on the map as an international contender for hosting prestigious sporting events. Nevertheless what is important to Medic 1 is that spectators, staff and players were treated to a safe, thrilling, tense and close tournament that entertained millions across the world. Here's to next time.
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