Couples, Norman named captains

2008-02-26

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PALM BEACH GARDENS, Florida (Ticker) -- Fred Couples and Greg Norman were named captains for the 2009 Presidents Cup, the PGAannounced Tuesday.

Couples will guide the United States team while Norman will headthe International squad in the biennial competition. The 2009Presidents Cup takes place at the Harding Park Golf Course inSan Francisco.

Couples takes over for Jack Nicklaus and Norman replaces GaryPlayer. Nicklaus' team went 2-1-1, including a 19 1/2-14 1/2victory last year at the Royal Montreal Golf Club.

"I am absolutely delighted to introduce these two great playersas the new Presidents Cup captains," PGA Tour commissioner TimFinchem said.

"While it may not be easy to replace two legends as JackNicklaus and Gary Player, I know both Fred and Greg step intothis role with strong passion."

The United States has a 5-1-1 lead in the competition whichdebuted in 1994.

As player, Couples posted a 9-5-2 record in Presidents Cup play,with Norman logging a 7-6-1 mark.

"It's truly an honor to be named U.S. captain and I have thechallenge of following in the steps of Jack Nicklaus, KenVenturi, Arnold Palmer and Hale Irwin," Couples said.