Wales launches Ryder Cup bid

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Wales has launched a bid to stage the prestigious Ryder Cup tournament in 2009 with the Celtic Manor Resort as its proposed venue.

The bid comes on the eve of the inaugural Celtic Manor Wales Open - a new event on the European Tour and the largest tournament ever held in Wales.

The new par-72 Wentwood Hills course, which measures 7,403 yards, has already been given a vote of confidence from Mark James, European Ryder Cup captain in Boston last year, and former Cup player Ian Woosnam.

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The Welshman, who helped design the three-course complex, said the facilities matched some of the best in Europe.

"I definitely think it has got a great chance," he said.

"With all the facilities, golf courses and hotel it is a wonderful complex.

"The clubhouse is magnificent, it's a super complex."

Woosnam, one of the big names taking part in the Wales Open which starts this week, said he would love to win his first Tour event in three years in front of a Welsh crowd.

"I think the competition is going to be a learning process for the Ryder Cup.

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"I hope the weather keeps up and people come to watch the golf."

Tom Middlehurst, minister for sport in Wales, believed the country and course were more than capable of staging such a prestigious event.

"We have a superb venue here at the Celtic Manor to host such a prestigious event and I know that Wales can offer the facilities, infrastructure and other support to attract the PGA," said Mr Middlehurst.

"I strongly support Wales' bid and urge everyone to work together to make sure we bring the Ryder Cup to Wales in 2009."

Rhodri Morgan, the First Secretary for Wales, added: "We're confident we could do the best job the Ryder Cup has ever had if we are given the opportunity in 2009."