U.S. captain Daniel eager for Solheim Cup

The 26th annual Chicago Golf Show is in town, a reminder to players that the thawing process will soon begin and local courses will open for business.

The show runs through Sunday at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center in Rosemont.

What sets this year's show apart from others is that it is taking place less than 6 months before the Solheim Cup comes to Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Aug. 17-23.

One of the most exciting events in women's golf, the Solheim Cup matches the top 12 players from the United States against the top 12 from Europe.

Visiting Chicago for the show is U.S. captain Beth Daniel. A veteran of eight Solheim Cup tournaments, Daniel couldn't be happier about the chance to showcase her leadership skills.

"Since I was named captain in early 2007, the Solheim Cup has been a full-time job for me," Daniel said. "It's a lot of work, but it's also a huge privilege for me."

While the final rosters are still to be determined, the U.S. team is expected to feature some familiar faces. Paula Creamer leads the standings, and Cristie Kerr, Natalie Gulbis and Juli Inkster are among the top 12.

Michelle Wie needs to have a very productive summer to crack the top 12, but Daniel did not rule out the possibility of making Wie one of her captain's picks.

"Michelle is definitely on my radar," Daniel said. "Her game really began to come around in '08. There was a time when she wasn't as enthusiastic about playing the game, but now she has that desire. We'll have to see how she's playing, but she does have a chance."

A lot of Daniel's strategy will be put to the test at Rich Harvest Farms.

"There are some holes on that course that you just want to survive on and par is a good score," Daniel said. "I have to look at it, though, as a captain not a player. There's a difference."