FIVE & KICKING
Future of Irish Open’s in rude health as handful of top stars take it in turns to host the tournament
FORMER Ryder Cup captain Paul Mcginley will be the first of the Fab Five to host the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open on a rotational basis from 2019.
Mcginley takes over from Rory Mcilroy who fronts this year’s event for the fourth successive time at Ballyliffin from July 5-8.
Four-time Major winner Mcilroy’s decision to take on those duties since 2015 has transformed event fortunes but now Mcginley, Darren Clarke, Padraig Harrington and Graeme Mcdowell are set to weigh in with their support.
The venue for the 2019 running of the Irish Open – and the order in which the stellar group will act as hosts after Mcginley – is yet to be announced.
“I’m thrilled by what we’ve achieved,” said Mcilroy. “I’d like to thank the European Tour for sharing my vision for the event. Now feels like the right time to rotate, using the model that has been so successful for the British Masters. I look forward to collectively building on the current platform.”
The British Masters is hosted by a quartet of top English golfers in Justin Rose, Lee Westwood, Luke Donald and Ian Poulter (inset).
Mcginley commented: “I’m truly delighted to be part of this next exciting phase. As Ireland moves to the forefront of the world golf schedule in July 2019, I look forward to hosting that year’s Irish Open and will endeavour to make it a memorable event for all.”
In past years there were concerns for the Irish Open’s future but with Mcilroy on board, the tournament gained in prestige. Last year it was one of eight events incorporating the European Tour’s flagship Rolex Series.
It is also moving to a date that should prove more attractive for the world’s top golfers and this year’s event is just a fortnight before The Open in Carnoustie. Three-time Major champ Harrington said: “I’ve always enjoyed playing an active role in helping to make sure it’s one of the leading events on the European Tour.
“I look forward to taking my turn hosting to benefit the Padraig Harrington Charitable Foundation and also to supporting Rory, Graeme, Darren and Paul when they take their turn.”
Mcdowell added: “We all know what Rory brings to a golf tournament, the extra effort he’s put into it over the past four years has been phenomenal.
“It’s now up to myself, Darren, Paul and Padraig to join Rory – and what an honour that’s going to be for all of us.”
Clarke said: “I’m absolutely delighted. There’ll be a natural rotation of the tournament around Ireland and a fair bit of competition to see who can put on the biggest and best tournament!”