The golf world is gearing up for the Ryder Cup, to be held at the Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky from September 16 to 21 (2008). A few facts about the course:

• Valhalla’s golf course was designed by Jack Nicklaus; it opened in 1986.
• It is a Par 71, 7496 yard course.
• The course’s signature hole is #13 with features an approach over water to an island green.
• The 16th hole to accommodate amphitheater-style seating for spectators.

For more about the 2008 Ryder Cup, see:

• US Finalizes its Ryder Cup Team
• Team Europe Picks its Final Ryder Cup Members
• How the US Ryder Cup Team is Chosen

^{(photo © Newscom)}

Post from: Green Posse

The Ryder Cup, founded in 1927, matches the 12 best American male golfers with the 12 best from Europe. The competition, held alternately in the United States and Europe, features a combination of alternate shot, fourball, and single stroke matches.

The US team is made up of the top 8 players (using the criteria below) and four team captain’s picks. The top players are determined using the following formula:

• Prize money earned in 2007 major tournaments (US Open, Open Championship, PGA Championship, and Masters) at a rate of $1000 equals one point
• Prize money earned in 2008 from January 1 through August 11 in official events at a rate of $1000 equals one point
• Prize money earned in 2008 at major tournaments (see above) at a rate of $1000 equals two points.

The 2008 Ryder Cup Matches will be held in the United States at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, KY. Paul Azinger is the team captain for the Americans. Nick Faldo is the team captain for the European team.

^{(photo © Newscom)}

Post from: Green Posse