U.S. and GB&I prepare for Walker Cup opening at Lahinch

The 51st Walker Cup begins Saturday at Lahinch Golf Club with the U.S. team seeking a sixth consecutive victory in the biennial competition. While the U.S. side holds a significant advantage in world amateur rankings, the GB&I team features an experienced squad including six returning players. The home side enters the tournament after training at the venue earlier this summer, with team members displaying familiarity with the challenging coastal dunes and blind shots designed by Old Tom Morris. U.S. captain Nathan Smith signaled an aggressive strategy to start the event, though players noted that high winds and shifting conditions at the venue will dictate tactical adjustments. The tournament marks a chance for the U.S. to maintain its current control of the competition, while GB&I looks to leverage home-course advantage to secure its first victory since 2015.

• 11:21 PMYahoo Sports — Six straight? It won’t be easy for U.S. Walker Cup team at Lahinch