Price ready to be easy Ryder

Phil Price, (pictured) 73rd in the world and with only five UK players ahead of him, has been going through a purple patch in recent weeks, top-three finishes at the British Masters and English Open are testament to that.

But the journeyman golfer, who for years ploded his way through the European Tour circuit relatively unnoticed, is building up to what wil be the biggest moment in his career so far - the Ryder Cup.

And after his well publisised struggle to hold onto his place in the European side, Price is ready to challenge for the Claret Jug.

"It's been a rather topsy-turvy time but this is a big one and I'm just raring to go," said the Bassaleg-based golfer.

"With the Ryder Cup only two months away to do well here would be a big boost." With Tiger Woods among the pack it is inevitable that people will start to talk about the Ryder Cup, and as a member of the European side the spotlight will be on Price more than most this week.

But Price is one of those rare players who can produce his best golf under the most intense pressure, and while other players are firing golf balls down the practice range Price will be talking to his psychologist Alan Fine.

"I make sure I speak to him for 15 minutes every week," said Price. "Alan makes me concentrate on my actions rather than worrying about the result.

"By focusing on aspects of my game and remaing strong mentally it makes more sense that thinking about having to shoot a low score."

Price is not the only Welshman aiming to make his presence at the Open count. Celtic Manor-sponsored David Park had to battle his way through a qualifying play-off to make the tournament and the former Welsh Amateur International aims to make the most of it.

"Results have not been so good for me since I missed the cut at Carnoustie in 1999. I did start the year well by finishing tied fifth in the South African Open but since then not much has happened.

"So I intend to make an impact here this week."