Minister Foster Receives Major Thanks

Northern Ireland’s three Major Champions welcomed a special guest to the annual Players’ Awards Dinner on The European Tour on Tuesday night in the shape of Northern Ireland Tourism Minister Arlene Foster.

Reigning Open Champion Darren Clarke and the last two US Open Champions Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy were three of the many stars in attendance at the glittering ceremony held in the ballroom of the Sofitel Hotel at London Heathrow’s Terminal Five.

The evening recognised the many achievements of The European Tour players in the 2011 season as well as continuing the build-up to the Tour’s flagship event – the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club – which tees off on Thursday morning.

However, before the evening began, Northern Ireland’s three golfing stars took time out with Minister Foster to discuss plans for the 2012 Irish Open at Royal Portrush, which will tee off on the venue’s Dunluce Course in five weeks’ time.

“It was a great pleasure to meet with the three guys and to hear at first-hand how much they are looking forward to playing in the Irish Open at Royal Portrush next month,” said Minister Foster.

“Securing some of the world’s top golfers including, of course, Rory, Graeme and Darren has ensured the Irish Open will be keenly followed by golf fans across the world.

“The recent announcement that Keegan Bradley, the reigning US PGA Champion, will also play along with two-time Major winner John Daly will bring even more benefits with increased interest from the USA, where fans will be able to watch the Irish Open in their homes.

“The Northern Ireland Executive is committed to ensuring that the Irish Open at Portrush will be a success. Hosting this important tournament will give a great boost to the Northern Ireland economy along with the tourism sector and we aim to use it to encourage potential investors to consider Northern Ireland as an investment location.”

Minister Foster was part of the top table gathering at Royal Portrush in January when The European Tour made the announcement that the Irish Open was to return to Northern Ireland for the first time since 1953 when Scotsman Eric Brown won at Belvoir Park.

Also present on the top table that day was Portrush resident Darren Clarke who paid tribute to Minister Foster’s involvement.

“The Irish Open has enjoyed tremendous backing from across the community and I think the support of Minister Foster epitomises that,” he said.

“She has been there right from when the concept was discussed through to the announcement in January and continues to be a visible support to everyone involved with the championship. Therefore it was good for the three of us to welcome her to our Players’ Dinner to say our own thank you.”