News

Friday 11th June

GB & I Team - Further quotes

SHELLEY McKEVITT

I played well today. I had a great day today. That was the windiest we’ve played the course, so that was good for us. I think the wind factor will be a big advantage to us if it blows over Saturday and Sunday.

Obviously the Americans have played in windy conditions back home but not in a strong wind on a links course. They usually hit the ball higher than we do. But, on reflection, maybe a little less wind that we had today would suit us on Saturday.

My game has been coming together over the last few days. I worked on a few things yesterday and they seemed to work today. I hit the ball really well … hit lots of fairways … so I was really pleased.

Each day we’ve been here, there have been a few more spectators. I know they’re expecting thousands at the weekend. That’ll be great. I like playing in front of a big gallery and when the pressure’s on. It’s a great feeling to hit a good shot and everybody cheers.

(Turning pro after Curtis Cup?)

For the moment, I’m just concentrating everything on winning this weekend. After it’s all over, I’ll have a think about it.

NIKKI TIMMINS

My game has got better and better over the week and, basically, I’m ready for the match. I don’t mind the wind although it does tend to throw your swing out a bit.

Yes, I’m looking forward to the big crowds being here on Saturday and Sunday. It’s going to be a positive crowd, with most of them behind us. I’m excited about it all.

(Nikki is a teacher: career golf amateur)

Yes, I hope this is the first of many Curtis Cup appearances. I didn’t know quite what to expect this week but it’s really been excellent. There’s such a nice buzz about the place.

We’ve got an excellent team, great team spirit and I can’t wait for it all to start.

EMMA DUGGLEBY

Yes, this is my third Curtis Cup but it still gives me a great buzz, especially with it being in this country, so many people here just for the practice and so many going to be coming on Saturday and Sunday.

I’ve played in a winning GB&I team in the Vagliano Trophy but not in the Curtis Cup. Hopefully, I’m going to put that right this weekend.

On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate our chances of success at “10.” We’ve got a really strong team.
Yes, I think a wind would help us but perhaps not quite as strong as it was today. The course is fast and running which should also be to our advantage.

Once you get going, playing in front of big crowds is great. The first tee and down the first fairway, I feel a bit nervous but I soon settle down to it.

I played OK today so, hopefully, I can carry it on over the weekend.

ANNA HIGHGATE

Yes, I’m pleased with my own game. It was a bit iffy at the start of the week but it’s been coming together every day and I was quite happy with the way I played today. I want the wind to blow because it will suit us more.