NEWPORT'S Celtic Manor Resort may face a further anxious wait to find out if they are to stage the 2009 Ryder Cup (writes Paul Tully).

The announcement whether Wales' premier course, one of four in Scotland or Slaley Hall in England would stage the cup in 2009 was expected at The Belfry on September 25.

But with this year's Ryder Cup postponed a year in the wake of the terrorist attack in the USA, the 2009 announcement may be delayed.

"Today is going to be a very busy day," said Professional Golfers Association spokesman Gordon Simpson.

"We don't know what effect the decision to put the 2001 Ryder Cup back will have on the future.

"There will be meetings today when all this will be discussed, and it's impossible to say whether a decision on 2009 will be delayed."

Tony Lewis, chairman of the Welsh Ryder Cup committee, said: "I have had an indication from the Ryder Cup Board there may be some slippage and they may have to put the announcement back a bit.

"We thought we'd have a decision around January or February and we are still waiting in September.

"But we will wait, we have a good bid and all Wales can be proud of it.

"I'm hoping to talk to the Ryder Cup Board again today, but the announcement is still due on September 25."

The authorities have confirmed when the Ryder Cup goes ahead next year both teams and captains will remain the same, so Newport-based Phil Price will still be involved.