Hazeltine 2016 is upon us

Can the USA wrestle the coveted Samuel Ryder Trophy back from team Europe?

The Americans have not won on the last three occasions, and six of the last seven, but now it is back in their own back yard and have a very strong team - is it their time?

Has Captain Clarke got too many rookies?
Should Russell Knox be in the squad?
Was Thomas Pieters the right choice?
Who will be the partnerships that bring home the points?
Will we defend the trophy?

There are so many dilemmas and questions that will all be answered by 11pm on Sunday night, so sit back and enjoy the best three days of team golf on the planet.

My Ryder Cup memories

Two years ago Daragh Cuddihy and I took our place on the first tee at Gleneagles.

7.46am - Game 2 Saturday morning
Jordan Spieth & Patrick Reed vs Martin Kaymer & Thomas Bjorn

This was our moment, a chance to walk the coveted fairways in the cauldron of the Ryder Cup. The atmosphere walking down the 1st at Gleneagles is something that we will never be able to explain but a truly magical moment and highlight of my career. I can't wait to watch these guys tee off on Friday lunchtime with the same stadium-like atmosphere around the first tee.

 

Goodbye to 'The King' 
 
As I write this whilst sitting in the clubhouse of Royal Dornoch, the sad news of Arnold Palmer passing has broken. The legend of golf died aged 87 and leaves an amazing legacy to professional golf.

Palmer became the first major US superstar and went on to win seven Majors, including four Masters titles - and his rivalry with the 'Big Three' dominated golf. 

Tributes have poured in, from players past and present, as well as from the US President. Jack Nicklaus said:

"He was more than a golfer or even great golfer. He was an icon. Arnold was someone who was a pioneer in his sport. He was the king of our sport and always will be."

Graduation Night

On Friday we held our Junior Graduation Night at the club. The aim of this new initiative is to raise the profile of GGC's junior section in 2016, and it has been an overwhelming success with around 40-45 boys and girls turning up each Tuesday. A huge thank you to our junior Club Golf coaches who this year have given all their time and knowledge to help these young kids to learn our wonderful game of golf.

Brian Nichol, Norma Ramsay, Ian MacNaughton, Jake MacPherson
Maureen Woodhead, Ian Samuel & Andrew MacPherson

The kids had a fun night where they all got a go on the SkyTrak simulator, took part in a putting competition and a short quiz. Certificates for attendance were given out and the club was full with parents. On behalf of me and my team of coaches, thanks to all the members and parents for their support this year.

On Tuesday morning, chef Adrian is hosting the first business networking breakfast, taking place from 7am in the clubhouse. This event will see business owners meet and network - if any members are interested please contact the Chef.

 

Highland Links 54-hole event - I'm away as I write this, competing in the aforementioned event. In the first round, played at Royal Dornoch, I carded a two-over-par 72 followed by a level-par 71 at Nairn the next day. Today sees me complete the event with a round at Castle Stuart.

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