Barstool’s Trent Ryan recently participated in the 2025 Creator Classic, an event organized by the PGA Tour featuring social media influencers. The event took place on a Stadium Course set up to PGA Tour-level specifications, providing a unique opportunity to see how an average recreational player would fare in a professional environment. Of the 10 participants, Ryan stood out as the Everyman representative with a reported handicap of 17, showcasing what an “average” player could expect to shoot on such a challenging course.
During his round at the Creator Classic, Ryan struggled with accuracy off the tee, failing to hit a single fairway. Despite his endearingly average driving distance and numerous missed shots, Ryan persevered through challenges and managed to maintain a positive attitude throughout his round. His scorecard featured a series of high numbers, including a memorable octuple-bogey 11 on the iconic par-3 17th hole, where he bravely continued to play on despite the difficulties he faced.
Ryan’s final tally for eight holes was a 29-over 61, significantly higher than other Creators in the event and showcasing the stark contrast between professional and recreational golfers. Extrapolating his score to a potential 18-hole round would place him in the 130-140 range, emphasizing the difficulty of TPC Sawgrass and the immense challenge it poses even to skilled players. Despite the high scores, Ryan’s round served as a reminder of the inherent difficulty of golf and the impressive skill displayed by professional players.
Although his performance may not have been on par with the top finishers in the event, Ryan’s resilience and determination were inspirational to spectators and fellow competitors. His ability to continue playing and find small victories in the face of adversity highlighted the gratifying nature of the game and the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges. The Creator Classic provided a platform for social media influencers to experience Tour setups at various courses, with upcoming events scheduled at Philadelphia Cricket Club and East Lake.
As Ryan and his fellow Creators navigate the unique challenges of playing on Tour-level courses, they provide a relatable perspective for recreational golfers looking to test their skills on challenging layouts. The event serves as a reminder of the gap between amateur and professional golfers, highlighting the precision and consistency required to compete at the highest level. Ryan’s experience at the Creator Classic sheds light on the complexity of the game and the valuable lessons that can be learned from facing difficult situations on the course.
Moving forward, Ryan’s participation in future Tour setups offers an opportunity to continue learning and growing as a player, while also inspiring others to embrace the challenges of golf with a positive attitude. The Creator Classic serves as a platform for showcasing the diverse talents and abilities of creators from various social media platforms, bringing together individuals with a shared passion for the game. Through events like the Creator Classic, the PGA Tour offers a glimpse into the world of professional golf while also celebrating the spirit of the game and the unique stories of individuals like Trent Ryan.
