Right about now, Padraig Harrington should be putting the finishing touches to his Ryder Cup Battle Plan. In a sane and normal world, every one of his waking hours would be focussed on Whistling Straits and defending the Samuel Ryder trophy won in rampant fashion by Thomas Bjorn’s European heroes three years ago. Sadly, it’s not a normal world right now and Covid-19 has now officially pushed the 43rd Ryder Cup back to September 2021. Happily, the postponement has given Padraig more time to fine-tune that Ryder Cup Battle Plan – and to reflect here on a lifetime in the game.
Rescheduling the Ryder Cup had to be done. It was never going to be an easy decision given the many factors that had to be taken into consideration, but I believe it is the right assessment given the unprecedented circumstances we are facing at this time. When you think of the Ryder Cup you think of the distinctive atmosphere generated by the spectators, such as around the first tee at Le Golf National three years ago. If that atmosphere could not be responsibly recreated at Whistling Straits in September, then it was correct that we all wait until it can be.
An extra year has given me plenty of time to plan. At the time, September 2021 felt like a long time away, but it has come around quickly and I guarantee that the European players and I are as ready as we’ll ever be. I can’t wait.
Going back through the years, the question I’m asked most often is ‘At what age did you start playing golf?’ I was four-years-old, but I don’t really remember it too well. I spent a lot of time as a small boy on the golf course at Stackstown, County Dublin, chasing rabbits or playing golf. The whole family worked on the course there, so it was with me from an early age.
This story is from the September 2021 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2021 edition of Golf Asia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Find Balance To Beat Pressure
Be the golfer who treats triumph and disaster just the same
HOW GRAYSON MURRAY RECLAIMED HIS LIFE AT THE SONY OPEN
The American overcame anxiety attacks on a recovery that helped him claim a win in Hawaii.
NICE WORK IF YOU CAN GET IT
The Sentry winner Chris Kirk rediscovers joy in his craft.
WELLNESS FROM THE SOURCE
Planning a wellness holiday but don't know where to start? Consider VistaJet's programme that will connect you to ancient and cutting-edge wellness practice across the globe
INSIDE AND OUT
Skincomm's new product AgeREcode™ professes revitalisation from within.
VIVA LA ROSSA
From a narrow strip just 12km long and 1k wide comes some of Australia's - and the world's best red wines. Here's why Coonawarra's juicy exports are perfect for leisurely sipping.
ANNYEONGHASEYO IN LANG CO
Laguna Lang Co introduces Korean fare.
MORE THAN AN IDEA
The MINI Concept Aceman sheds light on what is to come.
EVERYDAY SUPERCAR
The new McLaren GTS offers the best in driveability in a supercharged package.
HIGH PERFORMANCE ON THE OPEN ROAD
The Pagani Imola Roadster combines high-tech panache with the pleasures of a convertible.