Definition
The 2013 Palmer Cup was the 16th edition of the annual international team golf competition contested between collegiate men’s golfers from the United States and Europe.
Overview
The event was held from July 5 to July 7, 2013, at the Mid Ocean Club in Tucker’s Town, Bermuda. A total of 24 players (12 per team) competed in a series of foursomes, fourball, and singles matches over three days. The United States team defeated the European team with a final score of 13 points to 11 points. The competition was organized by the Arnold Palmer Cup Committee and continued the tradition of the Palmer Cup as a showcase for the top amateur talent in collegiate golf.
Etymology/Origin
The Palmer Cup is named in honor of Arnold Palmer (1929–2016), the legendary American professional golfer who championed the development of amateur and collegiate golf. The tournament was founded in 1997 as the “Arnold Palmer Cup” and later shortened to “Palmer Cup.”
Characteristics
- Teams: Each team consists of 12 male collegiate golfers selected by their respective governing bodies (the PGA Tour’s United States team and the European Golf Association’s European team).
- Format: The competition follows a match‑play format comprising four foursomes matches, four fourball matches on the first two days, and twelve singles matches on the final day, for a total of 20 points.
- Venue: The 2013 edition was hosted at the Mid Ocean Club, a historic links‑style course known for its ocean‑front setting and challenging conditions.
- Scoring: Each match is worth one point; ties result in a half‑point for each side. The team reaching at least 10½ points out of 20 secures the victory.
- Significance: The Palmer Cup serves as an international counterpart to professional events such as the Ryder Cup, providing collegiate players with high‑level match‑play experience and exposure to international competition.
Related Topics
- Arnold Palmer (golfer)
- College golf in the United States
- European Golf Association
- Ryder Cup
- Golf match‑play formats (foursomes, fourball)
All information presented is based on verified records of the 2013 Palmer Cup competition.