Dominant Brits secure resounding 13.5 - 5.5 Simpson Cup victory at Baltusrol

A rampant British team overpowered their opponents in the singles matches at Baltusrol's Lower Course on Wednesday to wrap up an impressive 13.5 - 5.5 Simpson Cup triumph - just their second on American soil, and a first on these shores in a decade.

Having led 4-2 overnight after edging Team USA in Tuesday's fourball matches, they never gave an inch when play got under way in the glorious New Jersey sunshine, and ensured that the leaderboard remained a sea of blue throughout the day.

That was how it stayed, and the landslide equals the record winning margin in the event's history. It also means they level the overall series at 5-5, with the teams set to reconvene at Royal Lytham and St Annes in 2023.

For victorious captain Dave Ward, this was a special result. Not since he himself captained the team in the inaugural showpiece at TPC Sawgrass back in 2012 have they crossed the Atlantic and lifted the Cup. Asked if he simply had the Midas touch, the 57-year old was suitably humble in reply.

"I'm so proud of my team, and the way they battled this week," Ward beamed. "It's not easy to win this thing away from home - we've certainly found it difficult for the last 10 years! But this is huge for us, as the Simpson Cup means so much. It's the pinnacle for OCF members, it really is."

He added: "This isn't down to me at all. Our players have come here with a steely determination and spirit. This is a close-knit group, and they've brought out the best in each other. It's been an unforgettable week, and I suspect it's going to be a good night of celebrations too!"

As for USA captain Marty Caraway, the feeling of disappointment was palpable, but he remained magnanimous in defeat.

As for USA captain Marty Caraway, the feeling of disappointment was palpable, but he remained magnanimous in defeat.

"I would like to say a huge congrats to Dave and his team - they played outstanding golf this week, and richly deserved to come out on top," he said warmly. "I couldn't be more proud of my team though - they gave it everything from the moment the first ball was hit.

"Some close games yesterday, and it might have gone differently had those gone our way. History shows it isn't easy to win this golf tournament when you're behind after day one, and the UK players never opened the door for us today. Full credit to them to come over to the States and get the win," the 41-year old added graciously.

So to the victors, the spoils, and Team GB will cherish this one. But, once again, both sides have exhibited the camaraderie and bonhomie synonymous with this great competition - with friendships renewed, and memories made.

We'd also like to extend a huge thank you to Baltusrol GC, who were wonderful hosts, and whose hospitality has been much appreciated. We've walked the path of legends this week at these iconic golf courses, and it has been a real privilege. Next year, we head to the North West of England for Simpson Cup 2023 - we hope to see you all there!

ABOUT ON COURSE FOUNDATION

On Course Foundation continue to provide positive provision for wounded, injured and sick Service personnel and veterans - supporting their recovery and transition to civilian life through confidence building golf events and opportunities for employment in the golf industry.  

As a sport, golf offers a unique platform where players of all skills and backgrounds can compete healthily, improving not only their physical but mental strength too. With many lacking self- belief, it’s our aim to help our beneficiaries realise their potential and set them on a fulfilling path.  

Formed in 2010, we have seen first-hand that that participation in golf can have a profound positive effect on the rehabilitation of our beneficiaries. 

ABOUT THE SIMPSON CUP

The Simpson Cup is an annual tournament between teams of 13 injured Servicemen and veterans from the USA and their British counterparts.

The Ryder Cup-style tournament showcases the unique position of golf as one of the few sports where players of all skills and abilities can play together on a level playing field, because of the official golf handicap system.

The tournament is named after its founder, John Simpson, the former Senior Vice President of International Management Group (IMG), who has only one fully-functioning leg as a result of suffering from polio as a child. During his time at IMG, John managed elite sportsmen such as Sir Nick Faldo, Bernhard Langer, Greg Norman, Vijay Singh, and Lord Sebastian Coe.

TPC Sawgrass hosted the inaugural Simpson Cup in 2012, while it moved across the Atlantic to Royal Lytham & St Annes the following year, where Team GB successfully defended the Cup. Congressional Country Club played host in 2014, and the Americans won the trophy there for the first time, before relinquishing it on a dramatic final day at Royal St. George’s Golf Club in 2015. In 2016, Team USA once again wrestled the Cup back from the Brits at Oak Hill Country Club, before following it up with resounding triumphs at Royal Birkdale Golf Club (2017) and The Maidstone Club, New York (2018). The Brits finally exacted their revenge at the Home of Golf a year later, only for the Americans to regain the Cup once again at The Creek in 2021 (postponed by a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic). It leaves the series well poised at 5-4 as we head to the prestigious Baltusrol GC in 2022, where the Simpson Cup will no doubt deliver a golfing extravaganza once again. 

Competitors involved in the Simpson Cup are all members of the On Course Foundation. The Simpson Cup raises awareness and funds for the On Course Foundation, a 501(c)(3) registered organization in the USA and a registered charity in the UK.