Crossing to new practice ground completes €18 million Ryder Cup investment
A new bridge that will transfer players and spectators to and from the practice ground during this year’s Ryder Cup matches has been officially opened.
The £2 million, 120-metre twin-suspension bridge completes a £16 million investment by The Celtic Manor Resort – having built a new course, clubhouse and surrounding infrastructure in time to host one of sport’s biggest events, the 2010 Ryder Cup.
Primarily a footbridge for spectators, the bridge will also be able to carry golf buggies transporting players and officials, as well as emergency vehicles, when The Ryder Cup is staged at Celtic Manor between 27th September and 3rd October.
First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones AM, cut the ribbon on the cable stayed bridge over the River Usk in the company of Sir Terry Matthews, Chairman of The Celtic Manor Resort, and Richard Hills, Europe’s Ryder Cup Director.
“We are proud to open this wonderful new bridge as the final major piece of construction for this year’s Ryder Cup,” said Sir Terry Matthews, Chairman of The Celtic Manor Resort.
“We have invested a lot of time and resources in creating The Twenty Ten Course – the first golf course in history to be purpose built for staging The Ryder Cup – and the surrounding infrastructure, which includes this fantastic bridge across the River Usk.
“This bridge is an important part of our commitment to provide the best possible playing conditions when the top golfers from Europe and America grace the event, as well as enhancing the spectator experience throughout the three days of play.”
Carwyn Jones, First Minister of Wales, said: “The Ryder Cup is a huge event for Wales and I congratulate Sir Terry Matthews and the team at The Celtic Manor Resort on completing the final piece of the infrastructure required on-site to host such a high-profile event. I can’t wait for the 38th Ryder Cup matches to get underway, as it will be a superb showcase for Wales.”
As well as the Ryder Cup practice ground, the bridge also links to a huge TV compound, which will house the world’s sports broadcasters on the Caerleon side of the river. On the golf course side, a vast tented village of spectator attractions will occupy the existing Twenty Ten practice ground between the river and the first tee.
Richard Hills, Europe’s Ryder Cup Director, said: “The installation of the bridge is a vital component of The 2010 Ryder Cup, facilitating ease of access to both sides of the River Usk. The Celtic Manor Resort as host venue has continually demonstrated superb commitment and we congratulate them for making this happen in such good time.”