Women’s Open: Dryburgh seeks Solheim Cup boost in St Andrews

Gemma Dryburgh is hoping a good showing at this week’s Women’s Open at St Andrews can help her force her way into the European Solheim Cup team to take on the United States in Virginia next month.

The 31-year-old from Aberdeen helped Europe retain the trophy in Spain last year, earning half points in her two outings as the hosts recovered from 4-0 down to tie 14-14.

Dryburgh is out of contention for an automatic qualification spot and will need to hope for a captain’s pick from Suzanne Peterson.

“It’s been a big goal of mine to get back on that team,” she told BBC Sport Scotland. “Hopefully a good week here will maybe get me a pick.

“I’m dying to be there and keeping that at the back of my mind.”

Dryburgh is well acquainted with St Andrews but has only played the famous Old Course on one previous occasion.

“I used to come here a lot as a kid,” she said. “I’d go to the aquarium and the Himalayas putting green, so lots of good memories.

“At one point when I was younger, I used to know every panel under the aquarium and all the facts and figures, but I’m happy to be playing golf this time.

“You would think I would have played here more, but yes, I’m very excited. It’s the most iconic thing in golf to play at St Andrews.

“I have had it circled on my calendar for quite a few years now.”