Solheim skippers square up

Opposing captains from the biggest event in women's golf, the Solheim Cup, met for the first time on British soil today.

Dale Reid, who heads the European team, and Pat Bradley, who leads the Americans, met at Loch Lomond, the venue for the Cup on October 6-8.

Bradley, who has played in three Solheim Cups and has 31 titles to her name, claimed being captain at this year's event at Loch Lomond is the high point of her career.

"This competition is the pinnacle of women's golf and I am very honoured to be here and represent the United States," said Bradley.

"I am delighted to be in captainship with Dale Reid. It should be an incredible competition."

The event's return to Scotland is particularly significant for the European side as the last time it took place at Dalmahoy in 1992, they won 11-6.

Since then Americans have dominated the biennial event, winning the last three times.

Reid said of the Loch Lomond course: "The last four or five holes are terrific match play holes and especially in foursomes and four ball matches which are usually very close.

"It is a fantastic golf course for people to come and watch."

The teams of 12 will complete eight foursomes matches on October 6, followed by eight four balls the following days, culminating in all 12 competitors playing singles on the Sunday.

Reid added: "This set up as a golf course could play rather long but these are top-class players. You are going to see some terrific play that week."