Ryder Cup captains confirmed for Smurfit European Open
IN: News | European PGA | Smurfit European Open (2005) | General | 12 Apr 2005
Ian Woosnam and Tom Lehman, who will captain Europe and the United States respectively in The 36th Ryder Cup next September, have confirmed their participation in this year's Smurfit European Open at The K Club, Straffan, Co. Kildare, Ireland, from June 30 to July 3.
It will be the first time the two men have competed together in Europe since they were announced as Captains, and presents the ideal opportunity for the duo to cast their eye over the venue for the biennial contest, since the 11th staging of the Smurfit European Open at The K Club will be over The Palmer Course, where The Ryder Cup from September 22-24, 2006 will also be played.
Woosnam's participation in the event will continue a proud tradition for the Welshman who has featured in every Smurfit European Open since 1995 and who has missed the cut only once, in 2000.
The 47-year-old more than made up for that the following year however with his best finish, a fine final round 68 seeing him share second place with Thomas Björn and Padraig Harrington, three shots adrift of eventual champion Darren Clarke.
"I am very much looking forward to competing in my 11th successive Smurfit European Open at The K Club," said Woosnam. "As I said when I was appointed Captain, I have always had a great affinity with the Irish golfing public and it will be great to go back there in June, and to also get a close look at the golf course which will host The Ryder Cup.
It will be Lehman's third appearance in the tournament, having finished tied for ninth place, seven shots adrift of winner Bernhard Langer, on his debut in 1995, and in a share of 33rd place in 1996 alongside four other players including, coincidentally, Woosnam.
"Obviously playing the golf course where The Ryder Cup will be staged next year will make this week extra special for me," said Lehman. "But I have always enjoyed my trips to Europe in the past and to Ireland in particular, and I am sure this week will provide me with more memories to treasure."
Dr Michael Smurfit said: "We are delighted that both Ian and Tom will be playing in the Smurfit European Open just 14 months before we all reconvene at The Palmer Course for The Ryder Cup. Both players are extremely popular in Ireland and they can expect a typically warm Irish welcome from the crowds at this year's tournament."
Source - European Tour
