South Cook News

Mike Bruni reasons something about the Olympia Fields Country Club (OFCC) being tabbed to play host to the 2020 BMW Championships just feels natural.

“The greatness of this course and our reputation for hosting championship golf is in our pedigree,” Bruni, slated to serve as general chairman of the tournament, told South Cook News. “Both sell themselves in terms of attracting interest. Next year, 2020 represents the 100th anniversary of our first championship hosted at Olympia Fields, and it so happens that was a Western Golf Association event as well.”

Even with all its storied history, Bruni said, club officials and members alike feel pride based at the club being selected to serve as the backdrop for such a prestigious event.

“There are far more courses than there are championships to host,” he said. “Western Golf can go anywhere in the country to host this event. We’re proud that everyone saw this course as being suitable for such an occasion. Our longstanding relationship with the Western Golf Association means a lot.”

 Bruni said between now and tee time the North Course where the event is slated to be held doesn’t figure to change much.

“We don’t anticipate any changes, and all agree the course will be played pretty much as it is,” added Bruni, who nonetheless said he expects there to be a different vibe in the air.

“What’s really unique is it’s a Ryder Cup year,” he said. “So, talk about golf in the Midwest over next two years makes for a really exciting time. It’ll be pretty remarkable the way Chicago and the Midwest will be able to celebrate our role in providing such spectacular golf.”

The 2020 Ryder Cup will be played at Whistling Straits in Wisconsin in August.

“Championships are hard to come by, but this course sold itself because of its difficulty, fairness and beauty,” Bruni said. “Our members are really excited by all this.”