Long time Hazeltine member, Patrick Hunt was recently named the Chair of the 2016 Ryder Cup Matches to be hosted by Hazeltine in three years from now. We tracked down Patrick to get his thoughts on preparations for 2016 and what it will mean to Hazeltine to host the most significant international golf event in the world. Here are five questions with Patrick Hunt:

How is preparing for the Ryder Cup different than preparing for PGA Championships?

PH: Everything is "more, bigger and faster." We need more room for hospitality, more room for the opening ceremonies, more room for people at the first tee. For example, the first tee experience is the most dramatic in golf. The number of people attending the opening ceremonies will surprise people. The volunteer positions will "sell-out" in minutes. The tickets will sell-out via lottery. It's an entirely different scale.

What do you hope to learn when you go to the 2012 Ryder Cup Matches at Medinah?

PH: Primarily, the approach to the scope. Handling of the opening ceremonies, handling of the gallery with fewer players on the course, alternative viewing experiences such as the international pavilion and jumbotron viewing areas, construction of the infrastructure. I've been involved in two PGA Championships and all I keep hearing from my PGA counterparts is, "you're not going to believe this."

What should the world expect to see when the 2016 Ryder Cup Matches come to Hazeltine?

PH:  Not only will they see the support and passion of Minnesota golf fans - as they always do - but they'll see the beauty of Minnesota fall colors and a golf course that will be in the best shape of any golf course anywhere.

Why are the Ryder Cup Matches such a big deal in golf?

PH:  It really comes down to team. It's the premier team event in golf. As Tony Jacklin once said, "The Ryder Cup is more than just golf. It is your country, your team, your Tour, your Captain you're playing for - it is the ultimate in golf." And the gallery is every bit as important as the players so we'll be looking to Minnesota golf crowds to contribute to the American effort.

Compared to the other major golf championships hosted by Hazeltine, how do you think the Ryder Cup Matches will rank?

PH: Without question, it will be the biggest, most significant golf event in our history.

Hazeltine National Golf Club is a private golf club located in Chaska, Minn., about 30 minutes southwest of downtown Minneapolis. The club opened in 1962 with a mission to build and maintain a golf course suitable for the conduct of national championships. Hazeltine is one of only two courses in the United States to have hosted the U.S. Open, PGA Championship, U.S. Senior Open, U.S. Women’s Open, U.S. Amateur, and Ryder Cup. Hazeltine’s meeting and event space, golf shop and specified services in the learning center are open to the public. More information about becoming a member at Hazeltine is available at www.hazeltinenational.com.