A MADCAP US TV star will put Inverclyde on the map when he tees off a crazy golf stunt from a local beauty spot.

Millions of Americans are expected to tune in as Emmy-award winning presenter Phil Keoghan begins a 100-mile putting challenge from Lyle Hill to St Andrews.

The New Zealand-born golf nut, famous for his hit reality show The Amazing Race, is to be given a special send off on his four-day trek by Inverclyde Juvenile Pipe Band.

And it is hoped US viewers will in turn fall in love with the breathtaking scenery Inverclyde has to offer.

Phil, right, said: 'I look forward to teeing off from Inverclyde. I"ve always loved the people of Scotland and I just figured the best way to connect with them and really experience the culture would be through the game of golf.' The historical links between the old port and the New World is one of the reasons for the decision to begin the quest at the top of Lyle Hill.

Thousands of Scottish emigrants set sail for America from Greenock.

Former provost Ciano Rebecchi, who fostered strong links between Inverclyde and the US, said: 'This is great news for Inverclyde. I hope he is coming here because of the strong connection we have with America.

'The pictures of Lyle Hill will tug at the heart strings and make them want to visit.' The stunt begins tomorrow with Provost Michael McCormick on hand to wish the presenter luck.

Reality TV host Phil, 40, is filming a new series called Keoghan"s Heroes for CBS News. The thrill-seeker has been all over the world carrying out death-defying stunts. Now he hopes to fulfil a lifelong ambition to putt his way across the home of golf from west to east finishing up on the 18th hole at St Andrew"s famous Old Course.