Ryder Cup 2017 was held on Monday 13th and Wednesday 15th November with the President’s Team taking on the Captain’s Team.
Happily, the President, Ray Norris, had carefully scheduled his globe-trotting to ensure he was able to play in the tournament this year.
On Day 1, playing in glorious sunshine, Ray’s team took a commanding 9-4 lead from the 4-Ball Better Ball matches, although it must be said that most of the matches were very close with many going to the 17th and 18th before the point was won.
Day 2 brought a strong breeze that always makes our course a much stiffer challenge. Captain, Steve Cullen, was hoping for a comeback reminiscent of the “Miracle of Medinah” when the European team snatched a memorable victory over the USA after being 10-4 down going into the singles matches. Unfortunately for Steve, Ray’s team were having none of that and steadily built on their handsome lead. In the end it was a comprehensive win for the President’s team by 26½ – 11½.
Vice Captain, John Radcliffe, playing on the President’s team, was delighted: “I have never lost a match in the Ryder Cup and yet I have never been on the winning team…until today”.
On presenting the trophy to Ray Norris, Steve Cullen thanked his team for their efforts. “I don’t believe this trophy has ever been retained by the previous year’s winners, so I was really hoping that we could make history today – but it was not to be. Congratulations to Ray and his team. They played very well over both days.”
Ray and Steve remained on the terrace into the early evening. After all, there was a bet to be honoured and some wine to be consumed.
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