BBC Sportgolf

Thomas Brent Weekley is likely to bring something different to the Ryder Cup.

The biennial event is unlikely to have seen many characters like the man nicknamed "Boo" after Yogi Bear's sidekick, who is said to have wrestled alligators and had a punch-up in a cage with an orangutan (he lost).

Weekley is a keen hunter and was once stopped by airport security after they found two bullets in his luggage.

A tobacco-chewing Floridian with a southern drawl and a liking for a beer is perhaps not the Royal & Ancient's idea for the face of golf.

But his wild exploits have made him a cult hero with fans, while his laid-back manner has made him hugely popular among players.

And he has proved himself a serious golfer, winning twice since returning to the PGA Tour in 2007 and 11 top-25 finishes in 2008 alone.

He has World Matchplay wins over Sergio Garcia and Martin Kaymer to his name and teamed-up with school friend Heath Slocum to finish runners-up in last year's World Cup.