Events to bring spirit of Irish Open to Newcastle

Events to bring spirit of Irish Open to Newcastle

31 July 2024

PREPARATIONS for the highly anticipated Amgen Irish Open are well underway.

Taking place at Royal Co Down Golf Club against the back of the Mourne Mountains, the prestigioustournament will run from Wednesday, September 11, to Sunday, September 15.

The event has attracted blockbuster names, including Northern Ireland’s very own four-time Major winner, Rory McIlroy.

Other top Irish golfers taking part include former Open winner Shane Lowry, three-time Major winner Padraig Harrington, Séamus Power and Holywood’s Tom McKibbin.

The event is supported by Newry, Mourne and Down Council, which is assisting businesses in preparing to welcome the Amgen Irish Open.

The council has hosted several business and tourism industry events, with each event providing insights and strategies to local retailer and accommodation providers on how to enhance their service offering to meet the specific needs of golf tourists.

The ‘Unlocking Opportunities Through Retail Magic and Brand Alignment’ workshop offered ideas on low cost and no cost visual merchandising, to enable local businesses to optimise sales opportunities and benefit from the influx of visitors.

The council has also curated a series of fringe events throughout the duration of the tournament to help engage both golf enthusiasts, visitors and residents alike.

These events aim to foster a lively atmosphere in Newcastle, which celebrates the spirit of the Irish Open, while highlighting the town’s vibrant local culture, cuisine and entertainment.

Attractions include a pop-up food village, showcasing the finest local produce, live music and performances featuring talent from across the district and a host of family activities.

Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairman Pete Byrne emphasised the significant impact the tournament will have on the district.

“We are excited to welcome the Amgen Irish Open and competitors back to Newcastle,” he said.

“This world-class event not only showcases our beautiful region but also brings substantial economic benefits to our local business community.”

Cllr Byrne continued: “We are proud to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of the DP World Tour, Royal Co Down, all our local businesses and the community in making the Amgen Irish Open a resounding success.

“The Amgen Irish Open is more than just a golf tournament, it’s an opportunity for us to showcase the vibrant community in Newcastle and the wider Newry, Mourne and Down district area.

“I invite everyone to join in the celebrations and make the most of the exciting fringe events planned around the Amgen Irish Open.”

Championship director Paul Gillmon said: “We are excited to be heading to the Royal Co Down for this year’s Amgen Irish Open and we are thankful for the support of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

“This will undoubtedly be one of the highlights on the island of Ireland’s sporting calendar and having buy-in from partners such as the council gives us a huge scope for success.”

Mr Gillmon added: “Newcastle is a vibrant town and I am in no doubt that it will provide the perfect setting for the Amgen Irish Open as we make our return to Royal Co Down.”