Belfast Golf Ambassadors Prepare For Visitors To The 148th Open

With less than ten weeks to go until The 148th Open at Royal Portrush, the tourism and hospitality industry across Northern Ireland is gearing up to welcome over 215,000 spectators and visitors from around the world.

In anticipation of the event, which will run from 14-21 July, Tourism NI has extended its WorldHost Ambassador for Golf training programme across six more council areas, including Belfast.

The training is facilitated by People 1st International and will prepare over 200 employers for the influx of trade this July, in the hope of showcasing the region as a suitable holiday destination.

Speaking about the expansion of the programme, Tourism NI Industry Development Manager Carolyn Boyd said: "Golf visitors have high expectations and take into consideration the quality of courses and accommodation along with local experiences such as food and drink. Working with our local councils, this training ensures that the industry has the core skills required to meet the expectations of golf visitors not only during The 148th Open but also beyond, so that they are encouraged to return to Northern Ireland and bring family and friends."

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Deirdre Hargey added: "Belfast City Council is delighted to take part in the WorldHost Ambassador for Golf training programme with Tourism NI. The 148th Open is the biggest sporting event ever to come to the north and will shine a spotlight not just on our spectacular north coast but on the entire region. Many of our visitors will travel via Belfast, arriving at our city port and airport. We want the tourism and hospitality industry in our capital city to be ready with a warm and friendly welcome, ensuring that visitors are left with a positive experience of what they found here."

Roisin McKee, Director at People 1st International added: "It is fantastic to see the enthusiasm across Northern Ireland for people wishing to become WorldHost Ambassadors for golf and in doing so, ensure that they deliver the best and most appropriate customer service for these visitors."