At last, after all the build-up and excitement, the 2023 Simpson Cup has lift off! The iconic clubhouse at Royal Lytham and St Annes provided the backdrop on Sunday evening, and mild autumn temperatures played their part (albeit with a fresh breeze), as the Opening Ceremony fired the starting gun on what promises to be a memorable week.

Players, sponsors, staff and supporters gathered at the picturesque old links, before proceedings got under way. Royal Lytham captain Mike Wilson made his welcome speech, followed by a few words from the event founder, John Simpson MBE, who enthusiastically reflected on a remarkable 11 years of growth and development for the tournament.

The players were then introduced by their respective captains Marty Caraway (USA) and Dave Ward (GB), before rising for the customary national anthems. Finally, it was left to Simpson to declare the showpiece officially open.

Once the formalities were complete, guests were moved upstairs to a delightful Gala Dinner, which included exemplary cuisine, coupled with speeches from On Course Foundation (OCF) members Dave Hughes (representing Team GB this week) and Gregg Stevenson. Hughes secured employment at Royal Lytham with the help of the charity, and spent four years here laying the groundwork for his new career in course maintenance. Today he is the Head Mechanic at Wentworth.



Stevenson, meanwhile, was the first ever member of the Foundation, and has now broken records in various sports including rowing, while also completing his Masters degree. These two gentlemen are a prime example of the good work OCF does, and the futures they can help build for those who have given up so much for their countries.

The evening was then rounded off with a successful fundraising auction, which is in addition to the incredible generosity already shown by our sponsors. And of course, throughout the evening 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.

It’s taken an enormous amount of work to get this event off the ground, and there are so many people to thank for their efforts. Ultimately it’s all come together, and we’ve got a tremendous four days ahead.

Tomorrow is the traditional Player/Sponsor Day (with a one-tee start from 08:40) enabling all and sundry to experience this fabled old course. Thereafter, a lunch and prize giving for the players, followed by team photographs. And, to close out the day, the announcement of the pairings as the tournament-proper kicks off on Tuesday with the Fourball matches (11:30 start). Proceedings then conclude on Wednesday following the Singles matches (11:50 start).

So, who will it be to lift the Cup? The defending champions, Team GB, boast a formidable record on home turf. But the visiting Team USA have a few fresh faces, and will be determined to regain the trophy they last won at The Creek back in 2021.

Whoever emerges victorious, all players and attendees will undoubtedly leave Royal Lytham and St Annes feeling inspired, with a first-hand view of individuals overcoming the ultimate challenge. And it is in this spirit, at a truly special venue, that the 2023 Simpson Cup has all the makings of the best one yet.