One for all and all for one

Teamwork and team spirit will be key ingredients if Great Britain & Ireland is to reclaim the PGA Cup from the United States says Russell Weir.

The Scot returns to captain GB&I for a second time when the transatlantic rivals go head to head at De Vere Slaley Hall from September 20-22.

Weir, who played a record-equalling eight times in the biennial contest, describes crossing swords with the cream of the United States PGA pros as the highlight of his career.

And on the eve of the tournament the 62-year-old will be addressing a past players and captains’ dinner, marking the 40th anniversary of the first matches which were contested at North Carolina’s legendary Pinehurst No.2 Course in 1973.

“It was the highlight of my career, representing my country, and with it being the 40th anniversary it makes these matches even more special,” he said.

“For me the PGA Cup is about the team spirit that develops throughout the week and the friendships that are forged which last a lifetime.

“The team is the main thing, you are playing for each other and your country and when you come up against the Americans it's even better – we all want to beat them.

“The match play element also adds to the whole spectacle, it is man against man, pitting yourself against the best the Americans can produce.

“It tests you as a player, not only your playing ability but your mental ability and your determination.”

America will be seeking a fourth straight victory with confidence high on the back of successive 17 ½ – 8 ½ wins and Weir concedes that bumps up the pressure but he has a quiet confidence in his team which includes a quartet of fellow Scots.

“I think there is increased pressure, after the convincing USA wins in the last matches,” he added. “It shows how strong they are but I feel we have a strong side and believe it will be much closer this time.”

The GB&I Team has a wealth of experience to call on in the shape of Greig Hutcheon, Scott Henderson and Benn Barham among others and that will be invaluable according to Weir.

“It is priceless, the standard of player we have got is really good right through the team. There is a lot of tour experience that hopefully can stand us in good stead against another strong US team.”

While well-versed in the demands the PGA Cup places on the players, Weir admits captaining the side for the first time two years ago was an even more nerve-wracking experience.

“The thing about playing in the matches is that you are playing for yourself and that's all you have to focus on. As captain you are hitting every shot and trying to hole every putt for every player – that's the difference. It's definitely harder on the nervous system!”

Having undergone something of a baptism of fire in CordeValle, Weir returns to the role, older and wiser and will do certain things a little differently.

“I think I have learned you have to go with your instincts a bit more. Last time I was looking at the stats regarding the players but sometimes you have to go with instinct. As the week develops I will be trying to see what the best pairings are, how each of the lads are playing, who gets on with who. I've already spoken to (vice captain) Jon (Bevan), we've got our own thoughts already and we'll put our heads together during the week and start to look at some different options and hopefully come up with the right parings when the action gets underway.”