Lucas Bjerregaard wants Made in Denmark to inspire Danish golfers of the future.
Himmerland Golf & Spa Resort, Europe’s largest golf resort, is hosting the first European Tour event in Denmark for a generation.
Thomas Björn is the headline name among 17 Danes, including Bjerregaard, competing for home glory.
And Bjerregaard, who turns 23 on the first day of the tournament, wants to see even more interest in a country where golf is already booming.
“We’ve not had a European Tour event since 2003 so it is special. We have nine European Tour players from Denmark now and hopefully this event will help us get more and will inspire some kids to get out there,” he said.
“Where I am from is about an hour from here so I will have a lot of local support. All my family and friends will be here.
“There should be 70,000 plus here this week, which is great. I’m glad the Danish golf fans are making this tournament a success.”
Bjerregaard added: “I play Himmerland nearly every day when I’m home. The facilities don’t get better than those we have here. It’s always a little windy here so I’m used to that.
“The rough is up and the greens and pretty fast, so with this wind it will be a test. It’s a challenging course. You have everything out there.
“They’ve made a lot of changes in recent years. The scoring depends on the weather; there are a couple of holes which will play really tricky.
“But there are a couple of par fives you can reach. So I think it will be about eight or ten under that wins it.
“We have a great place with great facilities here. The course is in mint condition right now and we have a top clubhouse and spa. They’ve spared no expense and it is looking very good for this week.”
Bjerregaard broke through to the European Tour after claiming the 21st card at the 2013 Qualifying School Final Stage.
He has had a reasonable 2014 with a best finish of tied ninth at February’s Africa Open, and is aiming for better yet on Sunday.
“There is some pressure this week. I’ll try to do my best though and hopefully on Sunday I will be up there in the mix,” he said.
“The game is in good shape. I’ve had four weeks off and I’ve really worked on my game and worked hard in the gym. I feel ready and the game is in decent shape.
“I’ve really enjoyed this year. It is a great Tour and I’ve been welcomed by all the Danish players. I really like it out here and I’m trying to do my best. Hopefully I can have some good events in the final events of the year.”
