I’m backing the underdogs...

As well as being away from home, they have six rookies in the squad, compared to only one from the US. The American team look incredibly strong this year and it’s going to be a real battle. Having said that, the European’s always seem to bond very well as a team, which can make a huge difference. My prediction for the tournament is a 14-14 draw, which would mean Europe would retain the Ryder Cup.

An event like no other...

It is a unique event and one which gains a massive audience across the world. Traditional golf tournaments don’t have the same rivalry that is produced by the Ryder Cup and it’s that which sets it apart. All the European golf fans giving their support against all the American golf fans – it’s such a brilliant, almost tribal, contest.

When the event kicks off it is all about holding your nerve and experience in that situation will help you keep a cool head under pressure. European captain Darren Clarke has picked Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer as two of his three wildcards and they could be game-changers.

Of the 12 players heading out there, six of them are from England and that demonstrates what a healthy position English golf is in at the moment. I think that comes down to how affordable and relaxed golf has become in the last 20 years and I hope that we can see further improvement in participation.

Participation on the up at Goodwood

Here at Goodwood, we’ve had a great year, with lots of juniors participating in our summer camps, another brilliant Revival Golf Challenge and the recent announcement that our Credit Membership is closing to new members over the next month or so. As of 2017, there will actually be a Membership waiting list to join, something that is almost unheard of for a golf club. We’re holding more of our ever-popular golf camps during the October half term holidays and I hope that these affordable events can encourage lots of children from the local area to get a taste of the game. Our Academy is also running some brilliant Get Into Golf programmes, specifically for women, which are brilliant for learning how to play and in a relaxed, friendly and sociable environment.

The weather may be getting cooler, but we’re still in full swing – it’s the perfect time to work at your game for the 2017 season.