Colin Montgomerie has revealed that the behind-the-scenes workload involved in being the European Ryder Cup captain has shocked him.
The Scot will head to Celtic Manor, the 2010 Ryder Cup host venue, for the first time next week along with European Tour boss George O'Grady and Ryder Cup director, Richard Hills.
While there, the group will meet leading Welsh Assembly representatives along with Terry Matthews, the billionaire owner of Celtic Manor.
"I've been in discussion with George and Richard from the European Tour ever since my appointment and next week we are going down to Wales next week to have a look already at Celtic Manor," Montgomerie said.
"All this planning for an event like a Ryder Cup just doesn't happen, and whilst I was aware of this, I am surprised how much is involved.
"The detail in February '09 for a series of matches in October of 2010 has shocked me.
"But I am looking forward to it all, and I am looking forward to everything involved with the Ryder Cup.
"So this will be all part of my planning as I want my players to arrive knowing that someone will be on their side and that person is me. Also someone that will know exactly what they want and require, and need because I feel the same, and I need to do that.
"Next week then will be the first of many, many visits to Celtic Manor and not just on the course but off the course."