The Arnold Palmer Cup is one of the most prestigious tournaments for college and university golfers. Named after legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, celebrated for his skill and charisma, the annual event showcases the best talent from college students around the world.
Chosen by 48 previous Arnold Palmer participants and deemed to embody the “Arnold Palmer Legacy,” 25 international students will face off against 25 American students. This year, the Ryder Cup-style competition is scheduled for July 5-7 at Lahinch Golf Club in Lahinch, Ireland.
Among the elite participants are two Ole Miss Rebel golfers. Caitlyn Macnab and Michael La Sasso have earned the honor to compete in the tournament this year. Macnab, from South Africa, will represent the international team, while La Sasso, from North Carolina, will represent the USA.
This is not the first time the Rebels have been selected to play in this prestigious tournament. Ole Miss has had a female representative in the tournament for four consecutive years, this being Macnabs’ second year to make the tournament.
Macnab is familiar with participating in these prestigious events and setting records. Despite the hundreds of tournaments she has competed in, Macnab acknowledges and appreciates that the Arnold Palmer Cup is “such an honor and (a) prestigious event to qualify for.”
“The fact that his legacy still carries on along with his traditions is pretty cool, and it’s special to be a part of it,” Macnab said in an interview with The Daily Mississippian.
La Sasso is the first male Rebel to be selected for this competition since 2018. The sophomore participated in all eight tournaments this season, securing the No.1 spot in the team lineup.
La Sasso’s talent has previously earned him spots on the Ben Hogan and Fred Haskins Award watch lists.
“I’m quite honored,” La Sasso said. “It’s a pretty big deal to represent your country and be one of the few selected.”
Like Macnab, he sees this opportunity to grow his golf career.
“It’s eye-opening that there’s a possibility to go play professional golf. It’s kind of going to be a lead way to feel what it takes to get to the next step,” La Sasso said.
Ole Miss Women’s Golf Coach Kory Henkes, a coach for the USA team in 2022, talked about what this means for Ole Miss Golf.
“It’s a testament to what level of golf Ole Miss is rising to, seeing all of these exceptional players continue to get selected for this tournament,” Kenkes said.
