Wales win AGW Home Internationals at The Belfry

The Belfry, four-time host venue of The Ryder Cup, staged the 2010 Golf Writers' Home Internationals where Wales emerged as the winners of a tense climax on the iconic Brabazon course on 1 September.

The event, held from 30 August - 1 September, saw six leading journalists from England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales compete in foursomes over two rounds on The Brabazon and one on the PGA National course.

On the final day, Wales edged out holders Ireland as Gly Wictome chipped in on The Brabazon's famous 18th hole to win his match and seal the Joe Carr Trophy.

"I played The Brabazon before it opened in 1977, but the course is without doubt in the best condition it has ever been in," said Mike Blair, the victorious Wales captain. "The PGA National was also looked after superbly by the green staff and you're really given a stern test of inland links golf."

Elsewhere, Scotland saw off England in the battle to avoid the wooden spoon, but England captain Michael McDonnell, who has witnessed every Home Internationals match since its debut in 1993, had nothing but praise for the venue.

"I've been at every AGW event and this has to be the best one yet," he said. "Not only has The Brabazon matured perfectly, but the entire set up at The Belfry was second to none."

The Belfry has undergone major changes to both the PGA National and The Brabazon, which has seen £3 million of development since it last hosted The Ryder Cup in 2002.

"The Belfry is very proud of the enhancements made to The Brabazon and the PGA National," said Gary Silcock, Director of Golf. "We are delighted such high-profile and respected journalists enjoyed these course improvements, and it demonstrates our ability to host any tournament at any time of the year."

You can read more about the Home Internationals at Fergus Bisset's blog.