'Big Al' gets second chance to topple US
Wednesday November 25 2009
A new challenge for Solheim Cup captain Alison Nicholas and a new date and venue for next year's Ladies Irish Open.
These were the main talking points at a media reception held in the elegant surroundings of the Killeen Castle estate, near Dunshaughlin, County Meath, yesterday.
The Ladies European Tour has decided to give 2009 Solheim Cup captain Nicholas another chance to topple the USA when the match is staged in Ireland from September 23-25, 2011.
And the 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Failte Ireland, will be at the Solheim venue, Killeen Castle, from August 6-8.
Gibraltar-born Nicholas, former Women's British Open and US Open champion, has experience of winning on Irish soil, as she claimed the Ladies Irish Open title at Citywest in 1996.
'Big Al,' as the diminutive 4ft 11ins captain is popularly known, was delighted to be given the chance to gain revenge for the USA's 16-12 win in Rich Harvest Farms, Chicago, in September.
She was a great player during her years on Tour from 1984 to 2004, and brings a zest for battle, plus experience of being on two of the three winning European Solheim teams.
"I'm thrilled with the confidence the Ladies European Tour have shown in me.
"I believe we can bring the Cup back where it belongs. I'm really excited and privileged to be given a second chance -- and also on home soil.
"I absolutely love the Solheim Cup and Ireland is a fantastic venue.
"The hospitality and the crowds will be electrifying. This time we'll be hearing 'Europe, Europe,' not 'USA, USA.' It's an absolute honour to be the captain," said Nicholas.
Nicholas' 2009 side lost eventually by four points, with the USA getting the edge that turned the match in their favour on the final afternoon of an exciting day's play. They have now won eight of the Solheim Cup matches to Europe's three.
The Ladies Irish Open moves from Portmarnock Links, where it was staged in 2008 and '09, to the impressive Jack Nicklaus designed Killeen Castle layout.
The new August date is immediately after the Ricoh Women's British Open, thus increasing the chances of attracting top American players.
- Liam Kelly
Irish Independent
