Darren Clarke Announced as 2016 European Ryder Cup Captain
The European Ryder Cup committee has announced that the 46 year old Northern Irishman will captain Europe against America in 2016. The 2011 Open champion will have the difficult task of trying to retain the trophy at Hazeltine in two years time. After the one-sided victory at the PGA Centenary course at Gleneagles in 2014 it is likely that Europe will be strong favourites for the event. An American Ryder Cup task force has been assembled in light of their poor showing at Gleneagles and an announcement on their choice of Captain will be made in the coming days. Clarke has been on the winning side in 4 previous Ryder Cups and has been vice-captain for Colin Montgomerie in 2010 and for Jose Maria Olazabal in 2012, both of which Europe won in tight contests. Darren Clarke will bring a wealth of experience to the European team and as a current member of the European Tour he is still very familiar with the players. Clarke's public image of enjoying a cigar and a pint of Guinness has meant that he is also a fan favourite for the American fans and will ensure that the atmosphere in 2016 is electric.
