Why I wish I was European

Okay okay, dont get me wrong, Im so proudly South African it hurts at times. But there is one major reason i wish I was European. Okay the lack of a need for a VISA would be nice, but the actual reason is a simple three words:

THE RYDER CUP

The Ryder Cup is one of my all time favourite sporting events. Its one of the few times Golfers put aside their need for individual glory and play as a team. The pride of winning for ones nation far eclipses the pride of winning for ones self. As a massive fan of team sport, this is my favourite golf tournament. A lot may say that as a South African I should be a bigger fan of the Presidents Cup (which consistently features 3 or 4 South Africans), however the Presidents Cup is not quite as special as the Ryder Cup. The Ryder Cup is etched in history and is truly an amazing tournament. The likes of Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomerie, Bernard Langher and the list goes on and on. It was started in 1927 and USA have one 25 and lost 10 in the history.

Watching the Opening Ceremony yesterday, it was apparent to me how much this means to the players. There were serious focused looks on there faces and a steely determination to win. The American team looked closer and have a better relationship with their captain (except Stewart Cink who got left out of the announcement!) but this is understandable from a team desperate to break a 17 year away losing streak.

Europe of course will be looking to bounce back themselves from the defeat two years ago in America.

The European Team consists of 6 rookies but they look good:

Name (World Ranking) - Comment

Lee Westwood (3) - 7th Ryder, Mister Consistency over the last 18 months. I really hope he gets to take on big Phil in the singles in what will be a classic clash!

Rory McIllroy (9) - Rookie, All the talk is of a grudge match with Tiger Woods! Good times

Martin Kaymer (6) - Rookie, The PGA Champ is on form

Graeme McDowell (13) - 2nd Appearance. Will make a potent team with his countrymen Rory McIllroy

Ian Poulter (16) - 3rd Appearance. The Arsenal Fan will be the most likely to chirp Tiger of all the golfers. and they playing together in the opening game! LOVE IT

Ross Fisher (27) - Rookie. He has choked before, I wouldnt bet my house on him. But he is there on form not captains choice

Francesco Molinari (32) - Rookie. The italian is untested (I dont know much about him!)

Miguel Jimenez (42) - 4th Appearance. His experience could be telling and is a huge fan favourite

Peter Hanson (42) - Rookie. The Swede is a no frills no spills golfer. I like it!

Captains Picks

Edoardo Molinari (15) - Rookie. Francesco's brother. I dont know much about him except he won the Barclays and Johnny Walker this year. Nuff said

Luke Donald (8) - 3rd Appearance. The fourth and final Englishman (I hope thats not a sign of things to come!)

Padraig Harrington (22) - 4th Appearance. The Irishman is a nice guy all round and would be my first pick everyday!

The American Team will feature Tiger Woods:

Phil Mickelson (2) - 8th Appearance. Big Phil is good. I really want a Mickelson Westwood round. Please Mr Pavin and Montgomerie are you listening???

Hunter Mahan (14) - 2nd Appearance. Winner of the Bridgestone Invitational this year

Bubba Watson (24) - Rookie. The owner of the coolest name in golf

Jim Furyk (5) - 7th Appearance. The winner of the Fed Ex Cup. The nicest guy in golf

Steve Stricker (4) - 2nd Appearnace. Undefeated as Tiger Woods partner. Surprised Woods doesnt stray!

Dustin Johnson (12) - Rookie. Disappointed in the final major of the year.

Jeff Overton (48) - Rookie. I know very little about Mr Overton to be honest.

Matt Kuchar (11) - Rookie. Picked up two wins on the tour this year!

Captains Pick

Zach Johnson (19) - 2nd Appearance. Solid Masters winner. Always a good pick

Tiger Woods (1) - 6th Appearance. Enough Said

Stewart Cink (35) - 5th Appearance. The owner of the title of "Ruining the biggest golf fairytale in history by beating Tom Watson on the last day, you idiot!"

Rickie Fowler (33) - Rookie. Who??? he looks 13!

I think it is poised to be a great weekends action. I think that the European team will shade the cup this year!

Follow all the action on the official website here.

Until next time, enjoy the golf!

JABU