Angel Gallardo, the vice-chairman of the European Tour's board of directors, has an important job this week . . . looking after the various dignitaries who have flown in to be a part of the Ryder Cup action.

Among those who attended the gala dinner last night were Britain's Prince Andrew, the Netherlands' Prince Bernhart, former US President George Bush and Olympics chief Juan-Antonio Samaranch. There were plenty of golfing celebrities too. Past European Ryder Cup captains Tony Jacklin, Bernard Gallacher and John Jacobs were guests of honour along with US Tour supremo Tim Finchem and the R & A's Michael Bonnallack.

Incidentally, Minister for Sport Dr Jim McDaid touched down in the south of Spain last night and he'll be joined today by Bord Failte chairman Mark Mortell to make the official announcement of Ireland's successful bid to play host to the Ryder Cup in 2005. Only eight years to go.