Ian Woosnam will promote Wales in the run-up to the 2010 Ryder Cup

Woosnam will captain Europe in this September's match against the United States in Ireland, and the Welshman is delighted with his new role.

"I've been proud to represent my country many times in my golfing career," said the 48-year-old.

"But this is a great chance to make a practical hands-on contribution."

The former Masters champion is determined to help bring Wales out of the shadow of larger neighbour England.

"Ryder Cup 2010 is going to make a huge difference to the growth of golf in Wales and to Wales' international standing across golf, leisure and business," Woosnam added.

"In all my travels nothing has annoyed me more than to be asked what part of England Wales is in. It is now part of my job to make that question extinct."

Ryder Cup Wales chairman John Jermine said: "Ian coming on board is a big step forward in our task.

"As the most successful golfer Wales has ever had, he has been a wonderful, albeit unofficial, ambassador for many years.

"Now he is going to help us build on the progress we've already made in attracting youngsters to the game and promoting Wales as a tourism and business 'must visit' destination."