Simple for Simon in Ryder Cup race
THERE may be 12 months still to go before Europe attempt to reclaim the Ryder Cup from the Americans at Celtic Manor, but for Simon Dyson, the dream of a debut appearance is almost a reality.
Following a fine performance in last week’s Vivendi Trophy and victory in the Dutch Open in August, Simon went into this weekend’s Dunhill Links Championship on the crest of a wave and four rounds in the 60’s capped yet another impressive performance and a three-shot victory.
Not only did it take him into the top ten of the Race to Dubai standings for the first time, but it also sent him to the top of the Ryder Cup rankings. Sure, there’s a long way to go but I would say that Simon is already virtually assured of a place in Colin Montgomerie’s starting twelve with this now behind him.
INCREDIBLE ACHEIVEMENT
Another near-certainty is young Rory McIlroy, whose share of second place with the desperately unlucky Oliver Wilson – still awaiting a win after eight runner-up spots – saw him leapfrog Martin Kaymer to the top of the standings with eight events of the season remaining.
That is an absolutely incredible achievement for a 20-year-old and you just get the sense that this meteoric rise to super-stardom is just beginning.
Sadly, those days look a distance away for Luke Donald, who began the delayed final day on top of the leaderboard, only for a disappointing final round 73 to deny him a first victory in three-and-a-half years.
No-one can doubt Luke’s talents, but he seems to be playing with such little belief right now. With a little more aggression in his game, I’m sure he’ll be a major contender again soon.
RACE TO DUBAI STANDINGS
PLAYER PRIZE MONEY
1 Rory McIlroy (NI) €2,008,567
2 Martin Kaymer (Ger) €1,982,055
3 Paul Casey (Eng) €1,965,150
4 Lee Westwood (Eng) €1,741,940
5 Geoff Ogilvy (Aus) €1,606,805