Belgium’s biggest golf tournament has begun in Antwerp province. The four-day Soudal Open is part of the DP World Tour and organisers are expecting around 18,000 spectators. Many are coming especially to see local Thomas Pieters.
The Rinkven Golf Club in Schilde is hosting the competition. Several top players, including Pieters and fellow Belgian Nicolas Colpaerts, are competing.
“Hosting the Soudal Open is a great honour for our club, and has been for several years now. It takes our operations to a higher level,” says club president Dimitri Rombouts. “Our groundskeepers live for this event for months. Year after year, our members notice how the quality of the courses improves. It’s also a great introduction for the thousands of visitors.”
Thomas Pieters warms up
Club president Dimitri Rombouts
Fans Jessie and Rowan
Hopefully, the Belgians will make the cut and advance to the final round. That will attract even more people
The first fans of the day gathered at the practice area where the players were warming up. “I’m here with my son. He’s a member of the club and loves golf. I really enjoy watching too,” says Jessie Jossels. Son Rowan knows who he’s come to see: “Thomas Pieters, I hope he does well.”
Antwerp native Pieters was close to victory last year, finishing joint second behind Spaniard Nacho Elvira.
Rombouts: “Hopefully, the Belgians will make the cut and advance to the final round. That will attract even more people.”
A number of Dutch and German enthusiasts are also attending the tournament, including Ute and Wilfried from Leverkusen: “It’s well organised and much quieter and more pleasant than in England.”