Portrush return ‘in five years’

THE Open is set to return to Royal Portrush within the next five years, according to home favourite Graeme McDowell.

McDowell (right), who was born in Portrush, managed to avoid the cut to play through the weekend but could finish only joint 57th overall as Shane Lowry won the first Open on Irish soil since 1951.

Former US Open winner

McDowell insisted the wait for an Open return would be infinitely quicker. He said: “I’ve heard the whispers that we could be back here as soon as five years from now.

“I think with the financial commitment that Portrush have made for this, for it to get the recognition and then get back here so soon, to keep that Portrush train rolling, it would be huge.”

Three-quarters of the 274,000 tickets sold over the four days were bought by fans in Northern Ireland and the Republic.

“The crowds have treated us amazingly this week,” said McDowell. “North or south of the border, it doesn’t matter. It’s been an amazing welcome. I’m very proud of what everyone has accomplished here.

“This has been a special week, I hope we’re coming back soon.” few months ahead of me and I’m excited. But I’ll enjoy this first.” Lowry’s victory moved him up to No17 in the world rankings, as well as vaulting him 30 places in the FedEx race.

Congratulations came from all directions, including previous Open champion Francesco Molinari, who said: “Incredible performance.”

Wellwishers outside the sport ranged from Irish boxer Carl Frampton to members of pop band Boyzone.