The ninth Simpson Cup at The Creek is finally under way, and it got going in some style too. Team GB arrived on Sunday - a day later than expected due to a delay with their travel exemption -  just in time for the festivities, and they had quite the treat in store.

The opening ceremony took place at the iconic Flag Pole near the 6th tee, with the watching audience treated to a marching of the colours, and an orchestral accompaniment. The players were then introduced by their respective captains, before tournament founder John Simpson MBE declared the tournament officially open.

Players, sponsors and supporters then moved to the spectacular Beach House restaurant for the Gala Dinner, where guests enjoyed an exemplary three-course meal, coupled with two panel discussions hosted by Bob Woodruff. The first was some light-hearted banter between the two captains and Simpson, and they were followed by a fascinating exchange between four-star generals David McKiernan and George Casey. It was captivating listening to what these distinguished gentlemen had to say, and their ringing endorsement for the work of the On Course Foundation carries significant weight.

There was also a silent auction to raise funds for the charity, which is in addition to the incredible generosity already shown by our sponsors. And of course, there was the visible camaraderie between the players, as friends from both sides of the pond reunited and reminisced - epitomising what the Simpson Cup is all about.

Even some patchy weather couldn’t put a dampener on what was a memorable evening for all involved. It’s taken an enormous amount of work to get this event off the ground amid the pandemic, and there are so many people to thank for their efforts. Ultimately it’s all come together, and we’ve got a tremendous week ahead.

It gets under way in earnest tomorrow in the Player/Sponsor Day, with a shotgun start at 9am. Thereafter, a lunch for the players, followed by team photographs. And of course, the announcement of the pairings as the tournament-proper kicks off on Tuesday with the Fourball matches (8am start).

Proceedings then conclude on Wednesday following the Singles matches (also 8am start). So, who will it be to lift the Cup? The defending champions, Team GB, boast a wealth of experience (with just one rookie). But Team USA have the advantage of playing on home soil, and will be determined to regain the trophy they won for three successive years from 2016-2018.

Whoever ends up victorious, the only certainty is that everyone will leave The Creek feeling inspired, with a first-hand view of individuals overcoming the ultimate challenge. And it is in this spirit, having faced so many hurdles to make it a reality, that the 2021 Simpson Cup has all the makings of the best one yet.