The Minister explained to a group of American and British journalists what Northern Ireland had to offer golf tourism at the first Walker Cup ever held here.
The Walker Cup is the biggest event in the amateur golf world’s calendar with players from the USA taking on Great Britain and Ireland. All eyes will be on Royal County Down this year as two local leading amateurs make the Walker Cup team. Local star Rory Mcllroy and the up and coming, Jonathan Caldwell joined the Great Britain and Ireland team, putting golf tourism in Northern Ireland well and truly on the map this weekend.
Tourism Minister Nigel Dodds said: “This world class event represents a significant opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland as a flourishing tourism destination.
“Northern Ireland needs to realise the full potential of golf tourism by encouraging some of the 60 million golfers worldwide to holiday here. Statistics have shown that every £1 spent by a golfer is worth £15 to the local economy, and because golfers care less about the weather than other travellers, there is limitless potential to increase the golf tourism market.”
The Minister added: “The golfing media’s presence this weekend not only offers our two local amateurs great media exposure, but gives the tourism industry an opportunity to present local attractions and activities on a truly global stage.”
Tom McGrath, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board said; “Attracting world class events such as the Walker Cup allows us to establish a strong competitive advantage for Northern Ireland. Golf tourism is a very important sector for us with golf visits to Northern Ireland rising by 58% between 2003 and 2006. Such statistics are an endorsement of our excellent golf products with some of the finest courses in the world on our doorstep. Royal County Down and Royal Portrush are regularly named amongst the top ten courses in the world.”
“With more than 95 courses combined with spectacular scenery and warm hospitality, Northern Ireland has much to offer any golf tourist.”
The Northern Ireland Tourist Board assisted the America and British journalists to utilise the full potential of this event by taking them to see some of Northern Ireland’s tourism highlights on a tour of the Causeway Coastal Route and Belfast city. The journalists will also experience some of Northern Ireland’s top golf courses on their week-long visit.
Notes to Editors:
- Media enquiries to DETI Press Office: Tel:028 90529297.
- Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
