Newport club tees up own Ryder Cup

As the USA and Europe prepare to go to battle in France, a replica tournament, in aid of charity, has already taken part in the heart of Shropshire.

Lilleshall Hall Golf Club, near Newport, held its own Ryder Cup tournament, featuring more than 130 golfers.

The biennial tournament featured 66 players representing Europe and 66 representing America.

Starting just seven days before the 42nd official Ryder Cup in France, the format echoed the real event and involved two days of competition.

The event was opened with an Eve of Championship Dinner, where speeches from the two team captains revealed which players were representing which team.

Europe were captained by club member Nobby Stiles, while club member Terry Beech captained America.

The teams wore replica shirts each day, which then concluded with a presentation of a replica Ryder Cup trophy and a team photo shoot.

The competition consisted of nine holes of foursomes, followed by nine holes of four-ball matches, finishing with an 18 hole singles competition on Sunday.

Throughout the tournament, players and their guests were treated to after-dinner speakers, comedians, a magician and a band for the evening's entertainment.

After months of planning, all 132 places to compete in the competition were sold out in a few hours.

Nobby, captaining Europe, said: "It was absolutely brilliant. We've had an increase of 88 new members join the club this year, most of which took part, and they all said they were blown away with it.

"I've played in every single Ryder Cup tournament they have done here, so for about 14 years, and it certainly was the best one I can remember.

"It was a great event that raised thousands for a couple of great causes."

Charities

The amount raised is set to be about £3,000.

The chosen charities for this year's tournament were the Lingen Davies Fund and Antibiotic Research UK.

Lingen Davies, based in Shrewsbury, offer support to people and families affected by cancer in Telford & Wrekin, Shropshire and Mid Wales, while Antibiotic Research UK are the leading charity in developing antibiotics.

This year's tournament marks the seventh time Lilleshall Hall Golf Club has held its Ryder Cup.

The previous six events have raised more than £15,000 for charity.

Set in 165 acres of land, the golf club on Lilyhurst Road is adjacent to Lilleshall Hall and its National Sport Centre.

Throughout the year the club host a number of charity golf days and events.

More information on attending or booking a charity golf day can be found at lhgolfclub.co.uk.