The BMW GAP Team Matches is canceled due to COVID-19, a global pandemic that continues to afflict the nation.
The event’s 119th edition was scheduled for April 19, 26 and May 3; May 9 for the Playoff & Challenges. This is the fifth cancellation in BMW GAP Team Matches history (World War II from 1943-45, the severe ice storm of 1994).
“Canceling the BMW GAP Team Matches was a difficult yet necessary decision given the state of the country right now. We thank our members and Member Clubs for their ongoing support during this trying time,” Mark Peterson, GAP Executive Director, said. “GAP will continue to monitor the ever-evolving ramifications of COVID-19 and proceed with the safety of our membership, staff and volunteers in mind.”
To date, there are nearly 41,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 nationwide. As it pertains to the GAP region, there are 2,844 cases in New Jersey, 644 in Pennsylvania and 68 in Delaware.
Overall, 157 Member Clubs were set to field a total of 348 teams in the BMW GAP Team Matches. Each team consists of 12 players. Six players compete at their home course; the remaining six compete at the opponent’s course. All players compete in a singles match and a four-ball match concurrently.
The Association’s forefathers conceived the Team Matches to promote spirit, fellowship and camaraderie. It started with the four founding clubs – Belmont Golf Association (now Aronimink Golf Club), Merion Cricket Club, Philadelphia Country Club and Philadelphia Cricket – each fielding two teams with six players per side. First known as the Interclub Team Matches, the event changed to the Suburban League Matches in 1915 before adopting its current moniker in 1997.
GAP
Celebrating Amateur Golf since 1897, GAP, also known as the Golf Association of Philadelphia, is the oldest regional or state golf association in the United States. It serves as the principal ruling body of amateur golf in its region. The Association’s 288 Member Clubs and 75,000 individual members are spread across the Eastern half of Pennsylvania and parts of New Jersey and Delaware. The GAP’s mission is to promote, preserve and protect the game of golf.
