Foster Welcomes Golfers McIlroy and Harrington to Lough Erne

Tourism Minister Arlene Foster has welcomed top local golfer Rory McIlroy and Padraig Harrington to Lough Erne Golf Resort.

The pair are set to take part in the Lough Erne Challenge, a new one day golf match which will help place the resort and the rest of Northern Ireland firmly on the international golfing map, with the event being broadcast worldwide.

Arlene Foster said: “Today’s event, which has attracted two of the biggest names in international golf, reinforces Northern Ireland as a world class golfing location and is testimony to the quality experience available at Lough Erne.

“At present, Northern Ireland golf tourism annually attracts in the region of 55,000 visitors and is worth more than £15million to the local economy. Whilst we are currently welcoming fewer American golfers, increased numbers are travelling from Europe to take advantage of the favourable euro exchange rate. That combined with the fact that golfers are generally less concerned about weather conditions, Northern Ireland has much potential for growth, particularly as we now offer the new five star Lough Erne resort and some of the best links golf in the world.

“The Lough Erne Challenge offers a unique opportunity to showcase our outstanding golf product and breathtaking scenery to worldwide audiences. The event will be televised across the globe, from the USA to Russia and South East Asia to Scandinavia.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Lough Erne Challenge which will take place over one day, will be stroke play ‘head to head’ between Rory McIlroy, who is attached to Lough Erne, and Padraig Harrington.
2. The Lough Erne Championship course was designed by Nick Faldo and was opened on the 1 July 2009.
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