It is a pleasure once again to see so many strong players both abroad and from Denmark as well. And it is even better that most of you have been here before to one of the previous tournaments _ which must mean that you like the stay in Copenhagen!

This year North America is also well represented with players _ welcome to all five of you!

A special thanks to the man behind the tournament, Peter Hecht-Johansen, whose engagement and support for this unique event increases year after year. As you all know it is impossible to run a tournament like this without the commitment of a bridge loving sponsor like Peter.

We continue this year with our Hecht Cup Bulletin written by Danish „Mr. Bull“, Ib Lundby (the Editor of DANSK BRIDGE), and live coverage on the internet presented by SWAN Games (Laila Leonhardt) and this year from Bridge Base Online (Fred Gittelman) as well.

Have a nice game _ I look forward to partying with you all Sunday night _ this year in a special restaurant in one of Copenhagen’s famous recreational areas, „Dyrehaven“.