The Ryder Cup is nearly upon us and it seems that, as usual, the big guns get going as it gets closer. The Barclays event on the US Tour saw a leaderboard literally packed with their Ryder Cup team with one of my favourite players, Patrick Reed, eventually overcoming Rickie Fowler et al to claim his first win for a while. I believe this is going to be one of the strongest American showings for some time, although I'm very aware we've all said that before.

However there are reasons to think this...

Phil Mickelson's outburst at the final press conference at Gleneagles was widely criticised as he laid into one of the greats in Tom Watson. However, I cannot think for one second that American Ryder Cup organisers would have ignored what he said. He was right - basically they have not been taking it seriously enough for some time and I'm pretty sure that has changed in the last few years.

Interestingly, I watched a film last night (I'm pretty sure some of you will be able to name it) during which one of the characters stated that it's only on the brink of disaster that we are actually forced to change. The most important thing is what you consider to be the brink of disaster. I think Mickelson's outburst told us all that he was there but we will have to see about the rest.

Now think of that when you consider the European Team. 30+ years ago we couldn't win one for love nor money. We reached the brink and we changed everything thanks to Tony Jacklin and also in no small part to Jack Nicklaus who saw that it should be the European Tour and not just GB and Ireland who fought the Americans. Since then we have perfected our approach and I have no doubt we will be ultra-competitive again.

Five rookies doesn't worry me - they are there by right and on merit and they are all playing well. It's the captain's picks that are interesting. Westwood seemed a shoe-in as he has played very well this year without ensuring an automatic place. Then there were a few options - Russell Knox got my vote, as he should be in by right being at number 20 in the world, so I'm sure he feels very disappointed not to be going. Martin Kaymer has made a good case recently and he adds experience but Thomas Pieters has been incredible coming second and first in his last two outings (plus fifth in the Olympics). His only problem is that he will be another rookie. That's not a problem to me if you get there by right, but as a pick?

That's a lot of pressure and I'm not certain but it's a decision Darren Clarke must have thought long and hard about. Whatever happens it's certain to be yet another incredible spectacle and I, for one, can't wait.




Back home I really have to mention our Guildford Cup Team that recently beat a very strong Canterbury side to make the final, probably against Littlestone. This really is a great achievement. Without looking I can guarantee that we don't have nearly the strongest side on paper but it speaks volumes about just how good some of our players are when required, and how good a team they make. Well done to everyone who played, and those who have in previous rounds to get them there.

Lastly, a quick mention about our juniors. This week sees the final event in the Kent order of merit for juniors which sees the top ten scratch players and top ten nett players from the year doing battle over the easiest course in the area - Royal St. Georges! Unless I'm wrong, Chestfield has the largest group there with three players, which is incredible considering a few years ago we were struggling to get two players to turn up for any tournament at Chestfield. Fantastically well done to Sam and Ben Robertson and junior captain Kieran Stubbs, all of whom are flying the flag superbly for Chestfield. There are a number of others coming through as well so please keep supporting them.