Industry News

Hewlett Packard Enterprise to support digital engagements at Ryder Cup

Hewlett Packard Enterprise has been unveiled as an official supplier for the 2018 Ryder Cup, which will take place at Le Golf National near Paris from September 28-30.

The US technology company will help deliver a secure, stable and flexible wired and Wi-Fi platform during the event, which is contested by representative teams from Europe and the United States.

It is hoped the partnership will significantly enhance the fan experience at Le Golf National (pictured), with the Wi-Fi platform to allow fans to track people, players and assets on the course.

HPE’s solution will be entirely based on the Aruba Mobile First Architecture, which consists of the switching and wireless infrastructure and is supported by a suite of central management and network security software. The solution also includes Aruba location services and Analytics Location Engine, ensuring rich and data-enabled digital engagement for spectators.

The solution, which has been designed and implemented by HPE partner Ultima, is in line with the European Tour’s efforts to digitally transform golf. A range of fan engagement initiatives, both on-site and through other channels, will launch as part of the deal.

The deal marks the largest investment ever made by Ryder Cup Europe in a technology platform for a Ryder Cup. The European Tour will also retain the ability to replicate the same technology setup across a number of its calendared events next year.

Michael Cole, chief technology officer of the European Tour, said: “As a world-class, major event it’s critical the Ryder Cup embraces the latest technology, empowers fans and delivers a best-in-class experience. We look forward to working together with HPE to elevate the digital profile of the Ryder Cup and make our vision a reality.”

Marc Waters, managing director for UK and Ireland at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, added: “Built on Hewlett Packard Enterprise technology the Ryder Cup in Paris will be highly secure and ultra-connected, this creates endless possibilities. The Ryder Cup is transforming digitally in order to change the way that people interact with a live golf event. At Hewlett Packard Enterprise we are both excited and delighted to be enabling this experience as the official supplier for network infrastructure services.”

Image: Lionel Allorge