THE YEAR was 1976 and two young golfers had set out from far-flung places to make their fortune. They hoped to qualify for a few tournaments and move on to the next stop.

PADRAIG HARRINGTON declared last night that Des Smyth is his vote as Ian Woosnam’s vice-captain for the European Ryder Cup team against the US at The K Club in September 2006.

THE campaign to ensure there will be an Irish captain when the Ryder Cup comes to Ireland in 2006 goes on unabated.