16 Sep 2008

Ryder Cup golf course battered by Ike

6:37 am on 16 September 2008

The Valhalla golf course in Kentucky has taken a beating from the remnants of Hurricane Ike at the start of Ryder Cup week.

Strong winds cut a swathe through the midwest and there was some damage to trees and infrastructure at Valhalla, although club officials insisted the damage was minimal and the course would be open for practice rounds tomorrow.

The three-day match starts on Friday with Europe the favourites to defend the trophy against an American side that includes six newcomers.