The
Ryder Cup in association with Genuity International |
| | | Torrance
- "Common Sense" Sam
Torrance has supported the decision to postpone next week's Ryder Cup for 12 months. The
match was called off in the wake of the terrorist attacks on New York and Washington. But
instead of a straight cancellation, officials have decided the event will go ahead
at The Belfry next September, with the same two captains and the same 24 players. The
exact date has yet to be announced. The
knock-on effects of the postponement - primarily the tickets, hotel rooms and
travel plans of the thousands of fans and worldwide media - were being addressed
on both sides of the Atlantic. But
Torrance's thoughts remain primarily on the victims of the tragedy. "The
decision to postpone is one of common sense," he said. "What happened
in America last week has put the Ryder Cup and everything else into perspective.
I am desperately heartbroken for all the people involved in this terrible tragedy. "All
I can feel at the moment is an immense sadness. There will be time enough to talk
further about the 34th Ryder Cup match taking place next year." The
48-year-old Scot had expected to be resigning as Europe's captain in a fortnight's
time - after, he hoped, he had won the trophy back. But
now, along with Curtis Strange, he finds himself in the job for another year.
Strange has expressed the same sentiments about the reasons behind the postponement. "The
tragedy has caused us all to reflect and evaluate our own lives and relationship
with family and friends," he said. "Our
hearts and prayers go out to all those affected by last Tuesday's disaster. "With
regards to these Ryder Cup matches my concern was always centred on 'the right
thing to do.' The PGA of America's decision to postpone the match is very appropriate
in light of the situation. "I
look forward to playing the matches next year." According
to Swede Pierre Fulke, every European player was apparently ready and willing
to gather at The Belfry next week. But not one of them is disagreeing with the
12-month postponement. Genuity
International, in association with Ryder Cup, sponsors Golf Today
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