First Golf Tourism Convention Held In NI

Twenty seven golf tour buyers from International markets are currently in Northern Ireland to take part in the region's first ever Golf Tourism Convention.

Hosted by Tourism NI, the event at the Slieve Donard Resort & Spa will allow golf industry representatives to participate in 540 one-to-one appointments and a range of networking opportunities with golf buyers from the USA, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Denmark and the UK.

It is part of a six day programme of activity with delegates also networking with local golf industry representatives, experiencing award-winning golf courses and seeing what Northern Ireland has to offer as a golf destination. The showcase coincides with the 148th Open, due to be held at Royal Portrush in July, when the region will feature on the world golfing stage.

Commenting on the Golf Tourism Convention, John McGrillen, Tourism NI Chief Executive said: "The reputation of Northern Ireland on the international stage as a tourism destination has grown significantly in recent years and golf has played a very important role in that.

"In the last five years, golf tourism revenue has grown by over 50% and in 2018 alone we welcomed over 124,000 golf visitors, contributing £42.6 million to the local economy.

"With The 148th Open at Royal Portrush in July set to raise our profile to even greater heights, the Golf Tourism Convention is a timely opportunity for international golf buyers to learn about what makes Northern Ireland such a special destination for golf."

Participating golf tour buyers, along with a number of golf journalists also in Northern Ireland this week, will take part in a familiarisation trip that includes playing at Castlerock, Royal Portrush, Portstewart, Galgorm Castle, Dunmurry, Ardglass and Royal County Down Golf Clubs. The trip will take them from Belfast and along the Causeway Coastal Route as they experience popular visitor attractions and enjoy local hospitality during their stay.





(JG/MH)