This great event of the European Tour, which takes place from 28 to 31 May, started yesterday on the route of Royal County Down in Northern Ireland, one of the most beautiful links in the world in the heart of the Murlough nature reserve , a stone's throw from the small seaside town of Newcastle.

Against the backdrop of the Morne mountains, the zigzag course follows the shore of Dundrum Bay. Royal County Down offers players and spectators breathtaking views from every hole and every panorama is worth admiring. But all eyes are on the golf stars, led by Rory McIlroy who himself comes from Holwood, a few kilometers from the heart of the action. McIlroy plays the host of the tournament organized by his foundation, The Rory Foundation, joined by the biggest names in golf and the biggest winners. “I am thrilled that the Irish Open will be at Royal County Down in 2015. It is even more exciting to face some of the world's greatest golfing talent on my own course,” said favorite Rory McIlroy.

Golf stars

The title holder Mikko Ilonen will also be present but also other stars like Luke Donald, Martin Kaymer and Patrick Reed who will fight to lift the trophy of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open on one of the most difficult courses of the competition. Rising British star Danny Willett and Frenchman Alexander Levy performed well from day one. The players were very excited as they approached the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open with the prospect of playing on one of the most beautiful links in the world. “I came to Royal County Down with my father and a friend in 1998 and I remember the course perfectly. He has a great story and it's probably one of my five favorite links, ”said Ernie Els when he arrived.

Ticket office closed

The Irish Open is a very popular European Tour tournament which attracts many people, more than 80 spectators are expected this year. Just like Royal Portrush in 000, the event is being sold out this weekend. The pretty town of Newcastle, the Morne mountains and the miles of golden sand also have something for golf fans who will enjoy it before and after the competition. Mountain treks, outdoor activities, forests, lakes, castles, small fishing ports and a multitude of high-quality golf courses are also nearby. Oyster on the plateau, Dundrum Bay is also known for the extreme freshness of its seafood as well as for the quality of its restaurants and the abundance of its friendly and picturesque pubs.

David Raynal

To prepare your golf trip to Ireland:

Irish Tourism
www.irlande-tourisme.fr
or by phone 01.70.20.00.20
For more information on the competition www.irishopen.ie

Alainn Tours
Specialist in Ireland since 1991 Alainn Tours concocts escapades for a weekend or extended stays with his French-speaking teams.
Unit 9, Pro tek House, Finisklin Business Park, Sligo, Ireland
Tel: +00 353 71 91 50345 XNUMX
Indigo number: 0820 20 20 30
Email: info@alainntours.fr
www.alaintours.fr