Mel Reid’s appointment as a Solheim Cup vice-captain for the third time serves as a timely reminder of English golf’s contribution to the biennial match.
But as Reid prepares to assist Europe’s skipper Anna Nordqvist for next year’s attempt to wrestle back the trophy from the United States, a wider campaign to bring the match to England for the first time will intensify.
The Derby golfer played in four Solheim Cups – winning two – before serving as a vice-captain in last year’s defeat in Virginia. She was also alongside Catriona Matthew for the epic win at Gleneagles six years ago.
That was the most recent occasion when the UK has held a match that has never been more popular with golf fans. It was also held in Scotland at Loch Lomond in 2000 and Dalmahoy in 1992 as well as St Pierre in Wales in 1996.
But despite a record 12 appearances for Europe by Dame Laura Davies, with a haul of 25 points (another record) and stalwart contributions from the likes of Reid and Trish Johnson (eight appearances) England has never hosted the Solheim Cup.
The coming weeks are thought to be crucial in determining where the 2030 contest will be held, with a concerted effort to bring the match to England. The Grove in Hertfordshire is considered the most likely venue.
