Over the weekend I hopped on a flight to the Netherlands where I was introduced to The Dutch. Not only am I talking about the people but the reason for the trip was to visit a golf course called The Dutch.

Dutch GC flag.

Connections can take you anywhere, right? Back during the Irish Open I met Mossy Daly, an Irishman currently working at The Dutch. More than another contact, Mossy quickly became a friend. Surely I was grateful for the invitation to Holland to view the course he talked very highly of.

Instantly I saw for myself just how impressive The Dutch is. The course was constructed in 2010 and opened for play later in 2011. Although The Dutch is very young, it is hosting the KLM Open upcoming in September. What a feat, only 5 years old and the golf course hosts an Open!

Me on the green at The Dutch.

The Dutch is inland but a links-style course; located just outside of Gorinchem, a small city where Mossy lives. Constructed from scratch, its a wonderful turnout of land that was once completely flat. Although it is not within sight or sound of the sea, there is a links feel to it. But one thing is for certain, theres never a shortage of waterways in Holland.

Busy canal in the center of Gorinchem.

Now on to my experience. The day starts off with a bicycle ride to the course. There are many, many bicycles in the Netherlands! Within cycling range, its a great way to start and finish the work day.

Mossy riding to work

After introductions to some of the crew I tagged along with Mossy to help with a project of his. The King's Course is a putting track near the practice grounds. I was happy to assist with a sodding project to lengthen one of the holes.

Area needing to be sodded.

Sod laid down.

On a trip halfway around the world who knew I would meet fellow Buckeyes! Ill tell you who would expect this, because so many times Ive been asked this summer, "Do you know Mike O'Keeffe?" Yes, I do, he is a legend! Quite a few working on the Dutch's green crew had been part of Ohio's Global Turfgrass Program.

Paul O'Donoghue is now the Superintendent there. He had been at Ohio State in 2007. I was thrilled talking to Paul about Columbus and places we both knew. Quite honestly, it pumped me up for this school year too!

Mossy and Paul

Other Buckeyes there are David Howe, David Dukelow, and Andrew Cowie. There sure is one fine crew at the Dutch!

An important note is that The Dutch is not completely finished. The course will continue to be a fantastic sight while the gorse plants, marram grass and other links type plants grow in full. Even with the course in progress, it is in fantastic shape! I am excited to see how itll look down the road. And certainly I am grateful for the visit, and pleased to have been invited back.

Me wearing The Dutch polo.

Until next time, Holland. Cheers!