Ian Woosnam and Tom Lehman lead their teams from the ceremony

Weather conditions eased to allow the ceremony to be held outdoors although it was still blustery.

A huge cheer greeted the European and USA teams as they came onto the stage after a programme featuring some traditional Irish music and dance.

Captains Ian Woosnam and Tom Lehman also announced their pairings for Friday's opening fourballs.

There was a welcome from Irish president Mary McAleese, who got the biggest cheer when she wished Irish trio Padraig Harrington, Paul McGinley and Darren Clarke all the best for the event.

She added: "We want it to be a thrilling showcase of golf and of Ireland. Most of all we want this Ryder Cup to be the most enjoyable, the most memorable ever."

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Spectators were treated to Irish traditional music, including the Ryder Cup theme, written by Donal Lunny while the music of Spain's Carlos Nunez, who has appeared in Riverdance, had the various Ryder Cup WAGs (wives and girlfriends) on their feet.

The American women opted for uniform grey tweed while there was a split in the European team with some choosing light blue while others preferred a check combination.

The European men stood out on stage with green blazers and black shirts and trousers while the USA team opted for smart dark suits with blue shirts.