Everyone pulls for the underdog and in 1985 the European Ryder Cup team finally had its day as the stranglehold of America was finally broken. Bernhard Langer was in Tony Jacklin's team that day at The Belfry. 19 years later at Oakland Hills, Langer was the one leading his team in celebration after the US were once again overcome, this time by a record margin. From 1985 to 2004, the Ryder Cup has provided joy and heartbreak for its teams, their captains and their caddies. Perhaps the greatest strength of the European side is its togetherness. Europe plays as a team and it is a team of 24. Its caddies have played no small part in Europe overcoming the odds. The players hit the shots; their trusty caddies shared the hopes, the glory and, occasionally, the misery. What was it like being beside Sam Torrance when he holed the winning putt and shed his tears on that historic moment at The Belfry in 1985? What happened in 2004 when Colin Montgomerie's right-hand-man returned to his bag to help lay the ghost of 1999 with sweet success at Oakland Hills? How do you cope when Seve Ballesteros is in full cry against the 'old enemy', especially when you are an American yourself?
In 1991, there were arguments over legal golf balls and the spike mark that cost Europe the Cup, but what really happened 'behind the ropes'? Who knew his man had had a vision he would beat Tiger Woods in 1997 - and did? What was it like witnessing those awful scenes at Brookline up close and personal in 1999? Who knew exactly which line to take when Paul McGinley sunk his memorable winning putt in 2002? The myriad caddies' stories featured in How We Won the Ryder Cup are told from their unmistakably unique position and provide essential reading for all followers of the game.