30 years a-growing as Smyth named Ryder Cup deputy

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.

Almost 30 years later, Ian Woosnam and Des Smyth have banked millions while remaining the firmest of friends. Appointed captain of the 2006 European Ryder Cup team, Woosnam decided Smyth would be his vice-captain, along with another old pal, Peter Baker, while Sandy Lyle and DJ Russell would also be part of his official back-up team.

This was confirmed by Woosnam yesterday at the K Club, where he was joined by American counterpart Tom Lehman.