Golf stars and fans converge on Heart of Down

11 June 2009 -

Spa, Downpatrick and Ardglass courses will treat fans of golf events in Northern Ireland to a showcase of international talent later this month.

From August 11th to 15th, the Heart of Down Tournament will see stars playing alongside members of the public, who will have the opportunity play the world-renowned Royal County Down on the fourth and final day.

Angela Gilchrist, tourism manager for Down District Council, commented that the tournament is continuing to grow in popularity, especially among international players who account for 90 per cent of those already registered this year.

"This event is one of the most important in Down district's event calendar and delivers many additional tourism bed-nights and considerable economic growth to the local economy," she added.

Last week up-and-coming-star Rory McIlroy visited the new Greenkeeping and Golf Academy at Greenmount, Antrim, to pass on advice to young golfers hoping to follow in the world number 16's footsteps.