No words ever prepare you for that first tee shot

Peter Baker struck up a winning partnership with Ian Woosnam at The Belfry in 1993.

On paper, six rookies makes Darren Clarke’s Class of 2016 look a little green, but Baker believes golf has changed since his single appearance.

Then, as now, one thing has not changed as Baker knows all six debutants will be desperate to contribute to the team effort.

“Rookies are different now,” he states. “Before the Ryder Cup, I had maybe played two or three times in the States.

“I hadn’t played against most of the Americans. Now, the guys play in all the Majors and have been to America lots of times.

“They are rookies in terms of the Ryder Cup but they do have experience.

“It’s a changing of the guard for the Europeans but there is no reason why they cannot do well.

“Traditionally, there have always been one or two who have performed well.

“These guys will have to put up with the vocal American crowd and put up with a little bit of stick, but that is part of it.

“It’s such a great event to be involved in and your first Ryder Cup is very special. I felt I was going to play a lot more of them and I’m sure these guys do.

“It’s a hell of a relief to win that first point. You have contributed whatever the situation.

“I was proud of that and I knew I could do it. Once you get that point, you feel a bit more relaxed – well, as relaxed as you can be!”

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