Portugal's 2018 Ryder Cup bid gathers pace

Portugal has launched its bid to host the 2018 Ryder Cup with the support of Don Jaime Ortiz-Patiño, the founder of Valderrama, venue for the 1997 contest.

The Portuguese bid is based at the new €1 billion golf and leisure development at Herdade da Comporta where American designer, Tom Fazio, has combined with European Golf Design, to build a purpose-built Ryder Cup championship course that sits on the Alentejo coast.

The Comporta Links, Fazio's first creation on this side of the Atlantic, is destined to become one of Europe's finest courses.

The development has already started and at at 7,867-yards from the back tees it would provide a formidable test for the European and American teams.

"What they have got is a unique piece of land with stunning vistas and great natural conditions to develop a great golf course and golf destination," said Patiño.

"I believe Portugal deserves to host the 2018 Ryder Cup because it is the only candidate that is a genuine golf destination.

"You don't go to Germany or the Netherlands to play golf but that's exactly what you do when you go to Portugal."

Portugal is one of five countries bidding to host the 2018 Ryder Cup. The winning venue is expected to be announced in April 2011.

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