Ryder cup bid to be discussed

THE Irish campaign to host the Ryder Cup match between Europe and the United States in 2005 will be taken a stage further at Valderrama next month.

Enda Kenny TD, the Minister for Tourism, met with Ken Schofield, the PGA European Tour Executive Director, and Richard Hills, the Ryder Cup director, last Friday to discuss Ireland's bid to host the biennial event. The details of the meeting will be discussed further when the Ryder Cup committee meets at Valderamma, host of next year's event, in four weeks time.

"It was made very clear by Ken (Schofield) and Richard (Hills) that this would not be a Dutch Auction - there will be one price and all who can reach that price are free to state their case. .. it will not be a case of one cheque book beating another," said the Minister.

. Michael Bradley sank a 10 foot birdie putt at the first extra hole to win the rain shortened Buick Challenge yesterday. Bradley triumphed in a five way play off after officials cut the event to 36 holes due to persistent heavy rain.