The Internationals wins North Sea Cup 2026

Images by Steve here

After 12 months of planning, September 19th saw the inaugural edition of the North Sea Cup between Gyttegard Golfklub and Lamberhurst Golf Club from Kent, UK.

Hosting in challenging conditions, Gyttegard fielded an international team consisting of Danes, Italians, Americans, Germans and Brits against an experienced British team for the right to call themselves Champions of the North Sea!

The morning rounds featured both foursomes and fourball matches, with six points available. Led out by our international captain, Gyttegard got off to a slow start with the forecast score looking to be 2-4 to Lamberhurst by lunch. Despite the best efforts of our first pairing, the talismanic British foursome took the first point (birdieing 3 of 4 par 3’s on the way), but this was to be the only sign of blue on the board as the remaining pairs fought their way back to a commanding 5-1 lead at the break.

After a much-needed pit stop, and a superb lunch at our Plantage Cafeen, the singles commenced with Kai Fechner leading us off against the Brits’ best. What followed can only be described as an inspired team performance punctuated with individual heroics.

Despite being 4 down at the turn, Kai produced a stunning turnaround to win 1 up and provide the belief the team needed early on; Maxim, the youngest of either team, halved a classic match and ball-striking masterclass. Lars Dahl, always so solid under pressure, halved his match on 18th. against the British Captain and Eric, the star international performer of 2026 took little time to rattle off an 8 & 7 victory.

With so many great moments, it is hard to list them all, but the standout performance goes to Dan Arnold, the rookie who had never played match play and received his call-up a mere two weeks before the biggest event of his career. 2 points from 2 on the day, undefeated, and very much a contender for a recall in 2027!

Lastly, our own captain delivered the point that had eluded him in the morning, and our guys delivered a solid overall victory of 13 &1/2 to 4 & 1/2 that will be remembered for many months to come.

The event was wrapped up with the victory presentation with the North Sea Cup now proudly displayed in our clubhouse. Gifts were exchanged, with the Brits proving gracious in the face of defeat.

Special mention and thanks must be given to our wonderful greenkeepers who provided a challenging set up under the toughest of conditions, our tireless golf manager who organised a fantastic event, our wonder Plantage Cafeen for another excellent experience and Hovborg Kro for hosting our guests over the course of the weekend and made them feel so very welcome!!

Now onto 2027, when we will travel to Lamberhurst with 9 points required to retain the cup. Bring it on!!!