Ryder Cup decision causes outrage

Auslan Cramb, Scotland Correspondent, Daily Telegraph, 29 September 2001

Politicians in Scotland reacted angrily yesterday to the confirmation that the 2010 Ryder Cup tournament had been awarded to an unfinished course in Wales.

The Celtic Manor Resort near Newport beat competition from Slaley Hall in north-east England and the Scottish courses of Turnberry, Carnoustie, Loch Lomond and Gleneagles. A high-profile Scottish bid was supported by Sean Connery and Sir Alex Ferguson, and promoted by Henry McLeish, the First Minister.

MSPs suggested that the PGA European Tour had already made up its mind to give the tournament to Wales before considering the submission from Scotland. Brian Monteith, the Tory sports spokesman, said: "If that is the case we have to ask why was the bidding process held at all, and is there any legal opportunity to sue?"

The Scottish National Party called the tour's decision disgraceful and a called for an inquiry. Mr McLeish, who campaigned strongly to bring the tournament to Scotland for the first time since 1973, said: "We had an excellent bid, I still think it remains the best."

Asked if he thought underhand tactics were employed, he said: "It was clear from media coverage, clear from comments that were being made, that this was going to be an uphill struggle because there certainly appeared to be people who viewed Scotland with misgivings.

"So people may want to ask questions. The world of golf may have some searching questions to pose of the committee."

However, Mr McLeish added that he had mixed feelings, because Gleneagles had been awarded the tournament in 2014, which would bring millions of pounds of investment to Scotland.

Ken Schofield, chief executive of the European Tour, said he was surprised by the complaints from Scotland. "Scotland is going to receive a Ryder Cup match, and we stand by our decision in good faith."