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As caddie Brian McLaughlinreplaces the flag, Europeancaptain Bernard Gallacherembraces Philip after hedefeated Jay Haas in thecrucial 1995 Ryder Cupsingles at Oak Hill.The theme tune for live television coverageof the 1995 Ryder Cup matches wasM-People’s massive hit at the time ‘Searchfor the Hero.’ It’s fitting that such aninspirational song is synonymous with one ofthe most emotional and intensely fought RyderCup contests since the matches began in 1927.And, of course, there was an Irishman in thethick of the action as the 1995 matches reacheda gripping climax at the Oak Hill Country Clubin upstate New York.Nick Faldo kept Europe’s hopes alive thatafternoon with his 1-hole singles victory overCurtis Strange, but the eyes of the golfing worldultimately focused on Philip Walton in thepenultimate match.Nothing could have prepared the teak toughMalahide star and his trusted Liverpudlianwingman Brian McLaughlin for the pressurethat unfolded as Jay Haas fought back to forcethe match down the 18th.Walton held his nerve and showed his classto deliver the crucial winning point and afamous European victory on American soil wascelebrated long into the night.Philip was treated to a hero’s welcome asConcorde touched down in Dublin and therewas a great sense of fulfilment as family andsupporters offered their congratulations.Europe’s Ryder Cup hero was on a high, buthe wasn’t entirely at ease with the intensemedia spotlight that persisted for a period.Seventeen years on, as he prepares for anew lease of life on the Seniors Tour, Philip canreflect on his achievements with great prideand look forward with great expectations.It was evident from an early age that he wasintent on becoming a top class golfer. Hisdedication to the game as a youngster wasextraordinary. He showed a great appetite forlearning and honing a whole range of shots.He blossomed during his teenage years andwas rated amongst the finest amateur golfersin the world in the early 1980’s.During a glittering amateur career hewon national titles in Ireland, Scotland andSpain...he was a member of the 1982GB& Ireland Eisenhower Trophy team...and heracked-up six points from eight matches in theWalker Cup.Great opportunities beckon forWe focus the spotlight on Europe’s 1995 Ryder Cup hero as he prepares toembrace new challenges on the Senior Tour. Story by Declan O’Donoghue8 | BACKSPIN