Ryder Cup 1985 At The Belfry

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By Golf Histories

The 26th Ryder Cup Matches were held 13–15 September 1985 at the Brabazon Course of The Belfry in Wishaw, Warwickshire,

Scotland’s Sam Torrance secured Europe’s first Ryder Cup victory in 28 years, by making an 18-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole for a 1-up victory. Tears streamed down Torrance’s face, and he raised his arms aloft.

Torrance, who had rallied from a three-hole deficit against U.S. Open Champion Andy North, didn’t need the birdie. North hooked his tee shot into the lake while Torrance hit a mammoth drive.

North reached the green in four strokes and watched Torrance putt and evoke a thunderous ovation, en route to Europe’s 16.5 to 11.5 triumph.

Spain’s Manuel Pinero (4-0) and Seve Ballesteros (3.5 points) guided the European Team.

The momentum swung to Europe during the second- day four-balls, when Craig Stadler, playing with Curtis Strange, missed a three-foot putt on the 18th hole that forced a half with Bernhard Langer and Sandy Lyle. Europe took the cue, taking a 9-7 lead into the singles and dominating the final day, 7.5 to 4.5.