McDowell and McIlroy welcome return of Irish Open to North
By Peter O’ Dwyer
The Irish Open is to be held in Northern Ireland twice in the next three years following its return for the first time in 60 years in 2012.
Royal County Down Golf Club is to host next year’s tournament – for the first time in 76 years – while Lough Erne Resort in County Fermanagh will stage the event in 2017.
World number seven Rory McIlroy is being credited by European Tour chief executive George O'Grady with initiating the idea of the event returning to his homeland, referring to the former US Open champion as “the catalyst” behind the decision.
O'Grady continued: “The Irish Open at Portrush in 2012 captured the imagination of the country after a lengthy absence. We are delighted to confirm today that the tournament will be back in Northern Ireland next year, at another magnificent links venue in Royal County Down, before returning again in 2017 at Lough Erne Resort.”
Both McIlroy and compatriot Graeme McDowell welcomed the news.
“There are few better golf courses in the world to play than Royal County Down so it’s all good as far as I’m concerned,” said McDowell.
“It’s important that the fans get to see their favourite players north and south, so we support the Irish Open always no matter where it is, but as Northern Irish players, to have played Portrush in 2012 and to be heading to Royal County Down next year is very special,” he added.
This year’s Open is to be held at Fota Island Resort in Cork between June 19 and June 22.
