Ryder Cup security measures lead to removal of $275 rangefinders at Bethpage Black ahead of Trump visit

Security officials at Bethpage Black intensified preparations for the Ryder Cup as organizers said commemorative Ryder Cup rangefinders priced at $275 would be removed from the course’s superstore on Friday, ahead of Donald Trump’s planned attendance on opening day. The move comes as authorities boost security measures for the New York clash between Europe and the United States.

Officials said the rangefinders, popular with fans for judging distances on the course, were among items barred from the course on Friday in what they described as enhanced security protocols. The items are expected to return to shelves on Saturday once the bulk of Trump’s presence has passed.

Bethpage Black officials are coordinating with the Secret Service and White House in a security operation described as multi-layered, including drones, bomb-disposal dogs and units trained to identify chemical, biological and radiological threats. In addition to the rangefinders, organizers announced a number of other items would be restricted from the first tee grandstand or clubhouse area on Friday.

Other prohibited items include portable folding chairs, torch-style lighters and large vaping devices. Laptops and tablets will also be barred, while umbrellas may be restricted in certain areas; ponchos have been strongly encouraged to protect spectators from inclement weather while maintaining sightlines for security personnel.

Gates are scheduled to open at 5 a.m. local time as Bethpage Black readies for a security operation intended to prevent chaos similar to disruptions seen at high-profile events. Officials warned fans to expect delays and airport-style screening as the grounds are prepared for the president’s arrival. The president is not expected to arrive until late morning, meaning he will skip the opening session and appear for the afternoon foursomes.

Team Europe’s players have been briefed that Trump will not be roaming the course, according to organizers. The setup has drawn attention from observers who say the event could be a focal point for demonstrations or statements, rather than a traditional Ryder Cup outing.

Separately, authorities have warned of elevated risk around the event in the wake of a recent high-profile shooting tied to political violence. In a separate development, Ryan Routh was found guilty of attempting to shoot Trump at a Florida golf course last September, a verdict officials cited as underscoring the security challenge surrounding the president’s appearances.

Organizers have stressed they are working closely with law enforcement to balance fan access with the need for security, and will adjust measures as necessary. Bethpage Black’s security plan reflects standard practice at major sporting events of this scale, with the aim of preserving the competition while safeguarding participants and spectators.