BBC SPORT | Special Events | 2000 | New Year Honours | Reid rewarded for inspired captaincy

Dale Reid's astute leadership of Europe's successful Solheim Cup team has been rewarded with an OBE.

The 41-year-old Scot guided Europe's women's golfers to only their second success over the United States at Loch Lomond in October.

Reid was a player in 1990, 1992, 1994, 1996.

With a stomach injury restricting her playing opportunities, she took on the mantle as team captain for 2000.

The Ladybank, Fife, professional was widely praised for her part in the Solheim success.

She has been re-appointed captain for the title defence in Minnesota in 2002.

Reid's controversial five wild card selections for the team turned the match Europe's way in a nailbiting finish on a murky autumn evening.

Indeed, three of those picks, Carin Koch, Janice Moddie and Catrin Nilsmark, won the final decisive points.

Reid's firm but supportive style of captaincy was lauded by the players.

English star Alison Nicholas said:

"She has been very open and honest and I think that's brought the team together."

Dale Reid
Reid wants to get back to winning ways

Helen Alfredsson agreed: "I think Dale has been creating a very good atmosphere, setting some rules and being very open with everything and talking to everybody.

Before the Solheim title brought her to public consciousness, Reid had carved out a successful career as a player.

She turned professional in 1979 and has won 21 European titles, the last of which came in 1991.

Despite the Solheim Cup success, Reid is keen to re-establish herself as one of Europe's top players.

She said: "I still haven't retired as a player myself.

"I would never be a playing captain, but I would like to get in the team myself. I could still play. If I sort the putting out, who knows?"


	Links to more New Year Honours stories