With world-class courses in some of the most spectacular locations on the planet, and one quarter of the world’s natural links courses, Ireland’s credentials are sky-high when it comes to golf. Golf’s original major is making a return to Royal Portrush on the Antrim coast, 68 years after it was last played there, and as the clock ticks towards tee-off time the excitement continues to rise.
As the battle for the famous Claret Jug unfolds in Portrush, the game’s elite players will be welcomed and inspired by an unprecedented sell-out crowd of 215,000 Irish and international golf fans.
There will be massive support for the home-grown heroes, but fans will also relish and appreciate every shot from the likes of Tiger Woods, defending champion Francesco Molinari and world number one Brooks Koepka, who’s caddy Ricky Elliott grew up in Portrush.
The seaside resort is well teed up to celebrate The Open, hailed by Darren Clarke as the “biggest and best tournament in the world”. The town of Portrush will be buzzing like never before with a host of top music and entertainment performers lined up for the Championship week, plus a wealth of special golf-inspired activities.
They include an interactive golf zone featuring a range of fun activities, including the 50-foot putt, a bunker challenge, a washing machine challenge, golf simulator and giant inflatable dart board.
An artisan marketplace will also bring high quality, locally produced gourmet food, as well as arts and crafts to the festival atmosphere.
And before and after the golf, Open ticket-holders and non-ticket holders alike can enjoy exploring Portrush’s thriving amusement arcades, restaurants, shops and bars as well as its harbourfront and amazing Blue Flag beaches.
