PLAN AHEAD

The top-ranked golfers from the United States competing against their peers from Great Britain and Europe for the Ryder Cup adds up a heady mixture of drama and emotion. This year's match at the Oak Hill course in Rochester, New York, from 22-24 September, should again be a scene of nerve-racking excitement.

Tickets for Rochester will be limited to 25,000 a day, with Europe's allocation 2,500. Thomas Cook is the appointed preferred travel agent to the Ryder Cup and potential supporters should beware of unauthorised agents offering tickets and accommodation. Thomas Cook offers a variety of ticket packages centred on the cup, with add-on options of golfing or tourist breaks. The agent has already sold 400 of its 2,000 packages available throughout Europe.

The Professional Golfers Association has an allocation for bona fide supporters travelling individually, who can show proof of private accommodation.

Ryder Cup, Oak Hill Country Club, Rochester, New York, 22-24 September.

Thomas Cook Direct 01733 335523 (10.30am-5pm) or any Thomas Cook branch. Prices range from £1,199 to £1,339.

Ryder Cup Office, PGA, Apollo House, The Belfry, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B76 9PT (Tel: 01675-475475).

Details of forthcoming events with information on tickets and venues should be sent to: The Sports Desk, The Independent, 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5DL. Fax: 0171-293 2894.

Compiled by Paul Maher