NI's Golfing Glory Continues

Northern Ireland's moment in the golfing spotlight was far from over when Shane Lowry lifted the Claret Jug last month, as thousands of visitors and golfers descend on County Antrim for the ISPS Handa World Invitational.

Over 300 competitors from around the world are playing in the five day tournament at the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort and Massereene Golf Club, which teed off on Thursday 15 August.

The event, presented by Modest! Golf, will showcase the region as a superb choice for a golfing holiday.

According to Tourism Ireland, a cohort of top journalists have also visited the region, bringing a potential audience of over 525,000 readers with them. The reporters, from the UK, the Netherlands and Belgium, tested their skills in the pro-am at the invitational and also played at Castlerock, Royal Portrush and Portstewart.

Chairman of Mid and East Antrim Council's Borough Growth Committee, Councillor Gregg McKeen said the event brings a welcome boost to the local economy, benefitting hospitality providers, retailers and traders with visitors enjoying the local attractions.

He added: "The global media coverage will also help put us on the map as a tourist destination, which allows us to market our fantastic parkland courses to a global audience.

"We have the Gobbins in Islandmagee and Carrickfergus Castle for visitors to explore with the presidential homesteads of Andrew Jackson Cottage and Arthur Cottage also open to the public. We also have a number of award winning marinas across the borough with over 100 parks for people to enjoy during their visit."



(JG)