America 250: Bobby Jones and Challenges at Shinnecock Hills

Bobby Jones: A Legendary Amateur Golfer

Bobby Jones was born on March 17, 1902, in Atlanta, Georgia. He became one of the most remarkable amateur golfers in history. At 14, Jones reached the third round of the U.S. Amateur, showcasing his potential early on. Throughout his career, he won 13 major championships as an amateur, setting a record that remains unbroken.

Challenges at Shinnecock Hills During the U.S. Open

Wyndham Clark led the U.S. Open through 54 holes on a Saturday at Shinnecock Hills. However, the sparse galleries and lack of atmosphere were noticeable at the iconic golf course, located on Long Island, New York. Shinnecock Hills, known for its championship legacy, faces logistical challenges because of its location. Transporting thousands of fans to and from the venue is ongoing.

Matthew Fitzpatrick walked the 18th hole during the third round of the 126th U.S. Open on June 20, 2026, highlighting the issue of fan engagement. Clark noted the absence of spectators as his group finished the round, reflecting on missed opportunities for key moments due to the fading light and dwindling crowds.

Transportation Issues Impacting Fan Attendance

The USGA received some criticism for the sparse crowds during the evening on Saturday. The last pairing of Fitzpatrick and Clark had a 3:45 p.m. tee time, but much of the attendance issue relates to transportation. Many fans coming from New York City rely on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) for access, departing from Grand Central Station or Penn Station.

The LIRR provided extra trains to accommodate attendees throughout the tournament week. However, the journey involved a four-hour round trip with multiple stops, posing a time dilemma for fans. Families needed to catch the 6:07 p.m. train from Shinnecock to return to Grand Central or Penn Station by 9 p.m. The final train departed Shinnecock at 9:30 p.m., arriving at Grand Central after midnight.