2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational

BUILDING A LASTING SPOR TING LEGACY

OFFICIAL PROGRAMME | JUL 28-AUG 1, 2021 GALGORM | MASSEREENE GOLF CLUB

WELCOMES 5

DR HANDA - ISPS HANDA

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MODEST! GOLF MANAGEMENT

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TOURISM NORTHERN IRELAND

11 EUROPEAN TOUR 13 LPGA TOUR 15 LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR

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MESSAGES 23 NIALL HORAN

Special times for Irish golf with another historic event in Northern Ireland

23 40 DESTINATION GALGORM

Explore the great outdoors at Northern Ireland’s Premier Spa and Golf destination 45 NI OPEN PRESENTED BY MODEST! GOLF John Murphy and Thalia Martin enjoyed a sensational week at Cairndhu, as did local Dermot McElroy to book their place at the ISPS HANDA World Invitational

47 ISPS HANDA ULSTER MEN’S AND WOMEN’S STROKE PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP Robert Moran and Aideen Walsh enjoyed winning performances at Royal County Down 48 NORTHERN IRELAND – MADE FOR GOLF

One of the world’s leading golf destinations is famous for its links and parkland venues and has so much more to offer away from the fairways too!

TOURNAMENT INFORMATION FEATURES 16 THE POWER OF SPORT ISPS HANDA was founded by Dr Haruhisa Handa in 2006 to further the transformative power of sport around the globe 25 TOURNAMENT PREVIEW

The first tri-sanctioned event between the European Tour, LPGA and LET to take place in the northern hemisphere

31 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS An action-packed festival of golf 52 HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE

Galgorm

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64 HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE

Massereene Golf Club 74 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Thanking our sponsors and partners DESIGN: Alan Morton @ Ballyprint.com

32 DRIVE FOR INCLUSIVITY AT WORLD INVITATIONAL

ISPS HANDA and Modest! Golf continues in their efforts to level the playing field and provide opportunity for all

EDITOR: Paul Gallagher @ PGPR Creative.com ADVERTISING: Jessica Boal @ Galgorm IMAGES: PressEye, Getty, Pat Cashman, Golffile, Picture Magic Studios, Ewan Harkness

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 3

ISPS Handa supports the 'Power of Sport' to break down barriers, create change and bring communities together.

As the first tournament in Europe to offer equal prize money for men and women, this week's ISPS HANDA World Invitational celebrates gender equality in sport; an important cause which we are proud to champion.

We are also excited to launch the ISPS Handa World Disability Invitational to be held in tandem. This tournament will pioneer positive change. We thank all the players, spectators and organisers for their partnership and support.

"We wish all the golfers, male and female, the very best of luck this week - your performances will inspire millions, both here in Ireland and around the world."

Dr Haruhisa Handa

Enda Kenny

RT Hon Sir John Key

ISPS FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN

ISPS PATRON AND FORMER TAOISEACH OF IRELAND

ISPS PATRON AND FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF NEW ZEALAND

Tony Abbott

Niall Horan

Brendan Lawlor

ISPS PATRON AND FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF AUSTRALIA

ISPS TOURNAMENT AMBASSADOR

ISPS TOURNAMENT AMBASSADOR

@worldinvitationalgolf

www.worldinvitational.golf

@World_Inv_Golf @world_inv_golf

WELCOME

DR HARUHISA HANDA

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s Founder and Chairman of ISPS HANDA, welcome to the ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented

by Modest! Golf Management and hosted at the award-winning Galgorm and Massereene Golf Club.

Building upon the success of the former NI Open, the new ISPS HANDA World Invitational will now showcase players from 32 nations and across the European Tour, LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour among others, all set against the stunning landscapes of Northern Ireland. The first of its kind in Europe with a focus on gender equality, this tournament presents an excellent opportunity for the sporting public to witness exceptional talent from both the men’s and women’s games, with an equal purse of US $1,500,000 respectively.

But what we are extremely proud of this year, and I hope to speak on behalf of the

professional golfers, tours and partners, is the hosting of the ISPS HANDA World Disability Invitational presented by ISPS HANDA Ambassador Brendan Lawlor in tandem. Can I take this opportunity to sincerely thank all who have spearheaded this effort, but especially to European Tour CEO Keith Pelley and Tournament Ambassador and world-renowned artist Niall Horan, who have endeavoured to create this pioneering platform.

ISPS HANDA believes in the power of sport and its ability to break down barriers between people. This is particularly true of golf, whose inclusive format allows for the sport to be enjoyed by men and women, young and old, disabled and able-bodied. We are grateful to have the participation and support of our patrons and ambassadors, the former Taoiseach of Ireland Enda Kenny, former Prime Minister

of Australia Tony Abbott, and ISPS HANDA UK Patron Peter Phillips.

Our genuine appreciation goes to the army of volunteers and the local community, without whose efforts this tournament would not have been possible. The diligent and enthusiastic work of Tournament Director Gary Henry, Galgorm’s Christopher Brooke, the entire Galgorm team, and Tourism Northern Ireland has been central and integral in bringing all of us together and we are thoroughly grateful.

Finally, ISPS HANDA wishes the golfers and spectators here or at home a fantastic week of golf, experiencing the extraordinary power of sport!

Dr Haruhisa Handa

Founder and Chairman of International Sports Promotion Society, ISPS HANDA

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 5

A sports management company built on 25 years in the entertainment industry @modestgolfofficial

@modestgolf

WELCOME

MODEST! GOLF

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n behalf of everyone at Modest!

Golf, we would like to welcome you to the 2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational.

This year we begin an exciting new era for the event as the LPGA, Ladies European Tour and the European Tour combine forces to promote a truly global celebration of golf, with a prize fund of US$3 million divided equally between our male and female competitors. This innovative event is a first of its kind in Europe and we are delighted to be hosting it here in Northern Ireland across two great venues.

None of this would be possible without our title sponsor ISPS HANDA, who already do so much for the game of golf on a global scale. ISPS HANDA’s generosity is relentless, investing particular focus and energy towards the creation of opportunities for both the women’s game and disability golf. Their work is inspiring, and their values align perfectly with our ethos at Modest! Golf.

Through the ISPS HANDA World Invitational, we have been proud to be able to showcase the Power of Sport; reaching out to different communities and bringing people together while providing opportunities that might not have otherwise existed.

At Modest!, we strongly believe that sport should be for everyone and we are delighted to play a small part in the continued inspirational story of Brendan Lawlor who this week makes history again by becoming the first disabled golfer to host their own tournament. Two years ago, Brendan was working full-time for his father with only a dream of playing golf for a living. Fast forward and Brendan is living his dream, travelling the world playing golf while spreading the message of disability golf that he holds so dear.

We must take this opportunity to thank the host venues, Galgorm and Massereene

Golf Club, and the entire staff for all their hard work. We would also like to thank every volunteer who has given up their time, and every spectator who has supported this year’s event by coming out to watch the players in action.

Finally, we must thank the European Tour, LPGA and Ladies European Tour for embracing our company and backing the vision we had for this event, and for the game of golf in general.

We know how challenging the last 18 months have been, not just for the golf industry, but for every industry ravaged by the pandemic. It was only through the absence of live sport that we realised how much we missed it; how important a role it plays in our lives, especially through the more difficult times. In that spirit, we can’t express how excited we are to bring live golf back to Northern Ireland, to welcome crowds and create a championship atmosphere, and show the world, through the ISPS HANDA World Invitational, just how powerful sport can be.

Best of luck to every player this week, enjoy the occasion, and play well.

Niall Horan

Director

Mark McDonnell Director

Many thanks

Niall Horan, Mark McDonnell & Danny Wardrop

Danny Wardrop

Director

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 7

WELCOME

TOURISM NORTHERN IRELAND

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ourism NI is pleased to support the 2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf at Galgorm and Massereene Golf Club, the first of its kind for the island of Ireland and indeed the UK and Europe.

As the only tri-sanctioned event in the northern hemisphere between the European Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour, the ISPS HANDA World Invitational represents a huge opportunity on our journey towards the full recovery of our tourism industry.

The tournament will deliver significant participant bed nights while providing international exposure for Northern Ireland as a premium golf destination. The exposure will come at a critical time in our recovery,

helping to rebuild our tourism economy and increase consumer confidence in Northern Ireland’s ability to host international events safely and successfully.

I am delighted that participants will be able to enjoy our fantastic golf product, with the appropriate health and safety guidelines in place.

Prior to the pandemic, golf tourism in Northern Ireland had increased by 93% in just six years, to £52 million, with on average 125,000 international golf visitors playing our world-famous links and parkland courses every year.

On the back of the hugely successful 148th Open hosted at Royal Portrush in 2019, which welcomed a record-breaking 237,750

visitors, this event will continue our legacy as a world class golfing destination.

I wish organisers, sponsors, players and spectators alike an enjoyable experience for what I am sure will be another memorable tournament in Northern Ireland.

My hope is that during your time here at the event, and visiting the surrounding area, you will experience first-hand the many reasons why Northern Ireland is truly Made for Golf.

Gordon Lyons

Minister for the Economy

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 9

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WELCOME

EUROPEAN TOUR

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n behalf of the European Tour, it is my pleasure to welcome you to this week’s ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf Management at Galgorm and Massereene Golf Club.

This is an event which brings together a collection of stakeholders who all share the same vision for the game of golf; inclusivity, innovation and entertainment.

We are delighted to stage the second mixed event on the 2021 Race to Dubai, following the success of the Scandinavian Mixed hosted by Henrik and Annika in June, and to once again work closely with the LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour to provide an event which offers equal prize funds for the male and female participants, and gives spectators a chance to watch stars of both the men’s and women’s game.

Not only that, but fans attending over the weekend will have the opportunity to watch some of the most inspirational golfers in Europe in action, when Ireland’s very own Brendan Lawlor hosts the ISPS HANDA World Disability Invitational.

We are extremely grateful to ISPS HANDA for their continued support of the European Tour and for their dedication in promoting inclusivity in our sport. Dr Handa and his team have time and time again proven their commitment to offering equal opportunities in golf, especially for female golfers and disabled golfers.

Another huge proponent of equality in our game is Niall Horan who, through his management company Modest! Golf Management, not to mention his status as a world-famous pop star, provides a global platform to promote golf as a game for all. We

extend our thanks to Niall for everything he has done and continues to do for our sport.

We also thank Gary Henry and his team at Galgorm - who organise and promote this event having built strong foundations on the Challenge Tour with the 2019 ISPS HANDA World Invitational – and prior to that, the Northern Ireland Open, which dates back to 2013.

It speaks volumes for the collaboration that exists within global golf that this week we will have three global tours from the men’s and women’s game, a host of global and local sponsors, and governmental support from across the island of Ireland.

We hope you have an enjoyable week.

Keith Pelley

Chief Executive Officer, European Tour

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 11

WELCOME

LPGA TOUR

O

n behalf of the LPGA Tour and all its Members, welcome to the 2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented

by Modest! Golf.

There’s not a more exciting time than right now for women’s professional golf, and I am honoured to join the LPGA Tour as the next Commissioner during this period of unprecedented growth. Every day, we #DriveOn to preserve and expand what our 13 Founders started now more than 71 years ago. After a year that was disrupted by COVID-19, our members are competing in more than 30 events across North America, Asia and Europe, for over $73 million in official purses.

Between the LPGA, Symetra and Ladies European Tours, there are players from more

than 50 countries showcased in events around the world. The talent and poise they possess is something to behold. As talented as they are inside the ropes, each player may be an even better person off the course with an equally unique story to tell. We’re showcasing our players and stories more than ever, with more than 500 hours of television coverage in more than 150 countries, setting a new standard for the LPGA Tour.

Whether it’s the largest single prize in women’s golf of $1.5 million to the winner of the CME Group Tour Championship, or the Aon Risk Reward Challenge providing the season’s most strategic player with $1 million to match the PGA TOUR incentive, we look forward to a fantastic 2021 season featuring the most approachable athletes in all of

sports. I promise, you will have a reinvigorated love for the game when you watch the best women in the world compete.

We want to extend a special thank you to ISPS HANDA, Modest! Golf and all sponsors and par tners, plus host venues Galgorm and Massereene Golf Club. Without your inspiring vision, this tournament would not be possible. To all volunteers, tournament staff and fans, thank you for supporting the LPGA, its players and our mission to Drive On. Sincerely,

Mollie Marcoux Samaan

LPGA Fan and Commissioner

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 13

WELCOME

LADIES EUROPEAN TOUR

E

veryone at the LET is overjoyed to be here at Galgorm and Massereene Golf Club for the ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf.

This unique global event, which is trisanctioned by the three Tours and an integral part of the LET’s 2021 season, will hope to attract new audiences to the men’s and women’s game.

I am delighted that we could all work together on this tournament and would like to thank ISPS HANDA and Modest! Golf for helping to progress the women’s game.

Now in the second year of our Joint Venture Partnership with the LPGA and after announcing a record-breaking schedule for 2021, our Tour is strengthening in all areas.

This year’s LET schedule includes 26

events in 18 different countries, including the Summer Olympic Games and the Solheim Cup. This is the 43rd season of golf tournaments since the professional tour was founded in 1978 and marks the second edition of the Race to Costa del Sol. The ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf marks a crucial juncture in the season with Rolex World Ranking, Solheim Cup and Race to Costa del Sol points all on offer.

Our membership of 316 professional golfers representing as many as 36 countries is diverse and multicultural. They are inspiring role models to follow and encourage others to pursue their own dreams.

Our players are passionate and committed to get better every day and share their love

for the game while recognising the grit that it takes to achieve long-term goals.

We extend our utmost thanks to the ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf and the sponsors for supporting our players and the future of women’s golf.

Let’s celebrate the competitors’ great skills and talents this week and continue to raise our game together.

Alexandra Armas

CEO, Ladies European Tour

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 15

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ISPS HANDA was founded by Dr Haruhisa Handa in 2006 to further enhance the transformative power of sport across the globe

I

SPS HANDA believes in the power of sport and its ability to break down barriers. It is a mantra championed by ISPS HANDA Chairman Dr Haruhisa Handa, who first witnessed sport’s transformative affect while playing a round of golf with Australian blind golfer Ron Anderson. His skill and exuberance were inspiring to say the least, showcasing the power inherent in sport that we can all experience, regardless of our differences and challenges.

ISPS HANDA funds and promotes a wide range of global sporting events in archery, bowling, boxing, football, golf, polo, rowing, rugby, and swimming, with an emphasis on blind and disabled golf.

Having collaborated with every major golf tour internationally, ISPS has supported competitions on the European Tour, LPGA, Ladies European Tour, European Senior Tour, Asian Tour, Legends Tour, PGA Tour, Japan PGA, Australian PGA and the Sunshine Tour.

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 17

OFFICIAL SPORTS NUTRITION PARTNER

WWW.KINETICASPORTS.COM

By partnering with global tours and golf’s key governing bodies as well as golfing foundations and their programmes worldwide, ISPS HANDA contributes to the development of the game at every level. We are especially committed to the promotion of blind and disabled golf and continue to lobby for golf to be recognised as a Paralympic sport.

As a loyal supporter to the Invictus Games since its inauguration in 2014, ISPS HANDA have sponsored Invictus Games’ golf events in London, Orlando, Toronto and Sydney, championing the power of sport; a shared vision of ISPS HANDA and the Invictus Games.

“We at ISPS HANDA share the great belief of Nelson Mandela that sport has the power to change the world, create a better society and break down educational and cultural barriers in a way that nothing else does.” – Dr Haruhisa Handa, Founder & Chairman, ISPS HANDA. ISPS HANDA has also been a dedicated supporter of female representation in sport, having sponsored the ISPS HANDA Women’s Australian Open for 11 years and also the ISPS HANDA Vic Open.

The ISPS HANDA Vic Open pioneered the provision of equal prize money to both male and female athletes, in a world-first for a professional golf tournament. We are proud to see how the event inspired the

“We at ISPS HANDA share the great belief of Nelson Mandela that sport has the power to change the world, create a better society and break down educational and cultural barriers in a way that nothing else does.”

Dr Haruhisa Handa, Founder & Chairman, ISPS HANDA

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 19

ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented

by Modest! Golf Management and are delighted to be part of this movement, which is a positive and important step forward for gender equality in golf.

One of ISPS HANDA’s imminent projects this year, the ISPS HANDA Sentebale Polo Cup, raises funds for the Lesotho charity founded by the Duke of Sussex and Prince Seeiso. Sentebale raises awareness for thousands of young people whose lives are impacted by HIV/AIDS. We feel privileged to support this flagship event on the polo calendar, which harnesses the power of sport to affect real change for those living with the condition.

ISPS HANDA is delighted to have a great

20 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

family of Patrons and Ambassadors who work tirelessly to share the message of our charitable organisation across the world and to lend their support to our projects. These include our Patron and former Taoiseach of Ireland Enda Kenny, former Prime Minister of Australia the Honourable Tony Abbott, former Prime Minister of New Zealand Sir John Key, and Royal family member Peter Phillips (ISPS HANDA Patron UK), as well as a roster of celebrated athletes that embody sport’s ability to inspire, break down barriers and create change.

Follow our journey at: Twitter @ISPSHanda Facebook @ISPS_Handa

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 21

ARE YOU A PERFECTIONIST?

BEHIND EVERY GOLFER

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iall Horan has been hitting the right notes not just in the studio and on stage, but within golf for many years. He is a golf fanatic who believes passionately about equality and inclusivity in the game. The owner of Modest! Golf Management is proud to be so closely involved in an event like the ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf.

“This is a key moment for professional golf in this part of the world, and with the help of ISPS HANDA along with both the LPGA Tour, Ladies European Tour and European Tour we have been able to take the ISPS HANDA World Invitational to a new level, which will without doubt reach new audiences around the world.

“The message behind the tournament per fectly aligns with Modest! Golf ’s ethos of providing opportunities for all and ensuring golf is a game for everyone.

These are vital messages which we plan to further develop with The R&A through our partnership with them.

“I have been attending European Tour events for as long as I can remember. To host a tri-sanctioned LPGA, LET and European Tour event on the island of Ireland gives me so much pride and I am delighted to be returning to the amazing venue of Galgorm and co host Massereene Golf Club.”

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 23

24 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

STAGE IS SET FOR ISPS HANDA WORLD INVITATIONAL This year marks an exciting new chapter for the first of its kind event in the northern hemisphere

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he European Tour, LPGA Tour & Ladies European Tour join forces for ISPS HANDA World Invitational Presented by Modest! Golf Management in Northern Ireland as this week heralds an exciting new chapter for the event.

The 2021 event will continue to be played over two courses, Galgorm and Massereene and will form part of the European Tour’s 2021 UK Swing. It also forms part of the European swing on the LPGA schedule.

It will be the first time an event of this format is tri-sanctioned by the European Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour in the nor thern hemisphere – following in the footsteps of the ISPS HANDA Vic Open in Australia which has the same format.

A 288-player field will converge for the US $3 million event. Two separate tournaments (144 men and 144 women), compete on the same courses at the ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 25

same time and for two equal prize funds of $1.5 million.

A traditional 72-hole stroke play format will be in place with men and women competing at Galgorm and Massereene over the first two days before a halfway cut reduces the field to the top 60 professionals, including ties, in the men’s and women’s draws. The third round will take place at Galgorm before a further 54hole cut takes place with the top 35 and ties from the men’s and women’s draws advancing to Sunday’s final round.

Highlighting the women’s draw is Major champion Georgia Hall, a two-time LPGA Tour winner who captured the 2018 AIG Women’s Open. She will be joined by fellow Englishwomen and LPGA champions Charley Hull and Bronte Law. Another major champion in Jeongeun Lee, who won the 2019 US Women’s Open, and Modest! Golf’s Angel Yin will be among the 69 LPGA Tour members competing.

Furthermore, 71 LET members are set to tee it up. That includes four winners from the 2021 season so far; Stephanie Kyriacou (Big Green Egg Open), Lucie Malchirand (Ladies Italian Open), Lee-Anne Pace (Investec South African Women’s Open) and Atthaya Thitikul (Tipsport Czech Ladies Open). In form Modest! Golf player Olivia Cowan, Sarina Schmidt and Diksha Dagar, who made up Team Cowan and won the inaugural Aramco Team Series, are also in the field.

Star names in the men’s draw include American John Catlin, who has won three

Charley Hull

Georgia Hall

26 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

I always enjoy visiting Northern Ireland. It is home to so many of my favourite courses in the world and a warm welcome is always guaranteed,” said Ramsay. “I really enjoy both the course and the hotel at Galgorm, which is first-class.” times on the European Tour in the last 12 months. He will have fond memories of Galgorm as one of those victories came in last year’s Dubai Duty Free Irish Open at the Ballymena venue – where even farmer Billy O’Kane’s cows came out to watch the action.

Marcus Armitage is one of golf’s characters, who gained much traction for his emotional breakthrough victory at the Porsche European Open at the start of June. He is joined by fellow Englishmen, Andy Sullivan and Jack Senior and all three showed great form at The Open at Royal St George’s. Senior will also make a welcome return to Northern Ireland after he won the inaugural ISPS HANDA World Invitational in 2019 alongside Galgorm Touring Professional Stephanie Meadow. The dry-witted Eddie Pepperell is another English golfer worth keeping an eye out for.

Scotland’s Richie Ramsay is a multiple tour winner also looking forward to getting back to Galgorm. The Aberdonian continues to show good form of late and was tied fourth in Mount Juliet.

Richie Ramsay

“I always enjoy visiting Northern Ireland. It is home to so many of my favourite courses in the world and a warm welcome is always guaranteed,” said Ramsay. “I really enjoy both the course and the hotel at Galgorm, which is first-class.

Closer to home Jonathan Caldwell will compete on home soil after winning his first European Tour title at the Scandinavian Mixed, the last event where men and women teed it up on the same course for the same prize fund.

Farmer Billy O’Kane and his wife watching the golf during the 2020 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open at Galgorm

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 27

Jonny Caldwell

Action from Massereene in 2019

Angel Yin

Olivia Cowan

John Catlin

He will be joined by a host of Irish players, including Galgorm Touring Professional Michael Hoey, Cormac Shar vin and Kinsale’s John Murphy, who won the NI Open presented by Modest! Golf at Cairndhu on his professional debut to secure a place in this week’s field.

Northern Ireland’s rising stars Olivia Mehaffey and Tom McKibbin will also feature this week.

Tournament week kicks off with starstudded Pro-am events at Galgorm and Massereene, headed up by Niall Horan, who will compete with his team at Galgorm.

The Pro-am is always a fun day for everyone and a chance for spectators to see their idols in action.

And as part of an exciting new 2021 EDGA European Tour season, Brendan Lawlor will host the first ISPS HANDA World Disability Invitational on July 31-August 1. Lawlor has championed disability golf around the world for years and is looking forward to hosting his own event.

“I’m so proud to be able to host an event of this calibre on the island of Ireland,” said Lawlor who became the first professional golfer with a disability to play a European Tour event at the UK Championship last year.

Marcus Armitage

Charley Hull

Eddie Pepperell

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 29

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TOURNAMENT WEEK, JUL 26- AUG 1, 2021

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

ON THE COURSE

OFF THE COURSE

MONDAY 26TH

PRACTICE DAY 08:00-17:00 Galgorm & Massereene Golf Club

Closed to public

TUESDAY 27TH

PRACTICE DAY 08:00-17:00 Galgorm & Massereene Golf Club

Closed to public

WEDNESDAY 28TH

PRO-AM DAY 07:30-17:30 Galgorm & Massereene Golf Club

Gates open 7.30am

THURSDAY 29TH

TOURNAMENT DAY 1 07:30 Start both courses Galgorm & Massereene Golf Club

Gates open 7.30am

FRIDAY 30TH

TOURNAMENT DAY 2 07:30 Start both courses Galgorm & Massereene Golf Club Halfway cut at end of play

Gates open 7.30am

SATURDAY 31ST

TOURNAMENT DAY 3 07:30 Start Galgorm Third round cut at end of play

Gates open 7.30am

SUNDAY 1ST

TOURNAMENT DAY 4 07:30 Start Galgorm 17:00 Official prize giving

Gates open 7.30am

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 31

In their constant efforts to level the playing field, this summer ISPS Handa and Modest! Golf bring the European Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour together for a $3million celebration of inclusivity in golf at Galgorm & Massereene – you won’t want to miss it…

By Peter Finnan, irishgolfer.ie

DRIVE FOR INCLUSIVITY CONTINUES APACE AT WORLD INVITATIONAL T

his summer the European Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour join forces for the ISPS Handa World Invitational p re s e n t e d by M o d e s t ! G o l f a t Galgorm and Massereene from July 28 – August 1.

The landmark union heralds an exciting new chapter for the event, which has been elevated to European Tour status following a hugely successful inaugural edition on the European Challenge Tour in 2019.

With sanctioning, c ome s great responsibility but also monumental opportunity for a 288-player field, comprised of 144 men and 144 women who will compete for an equal split of the $3million prize purse 32 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

on offer in Northern Ireland.

The event will be the culmination of a mammoth amount of work undertaken by a whole host of key industry leaders in the game and none more so than Modest! Golf whose owner, Niall Horan, cannot wait to showcase all that is great about the power of sport when the event touches down at Galgorm and Massereene this July.

“It’s hugely exciting,” said Horan, a music maestro come certified golf nut from Mullingar. “We’ve obviously waited a long time to make this happen and I’m happy that we waited because now we’ve got all the tours involved - it’s huge.

“We tried and tested it in 2019 but this time it’s fully sanctioned and with sanctioning

comes a lot more money to play for.

“In terms of our role, we are there to promote the tournament alongside ISPS Handa. ISPS and Dr. Handa have been breaking down barriers in sport for years so we’re there to help elevate that with them and thankfully we’re going back to Galgorm.

“Gary Henry [Managing Director] and all the team there have been unbelievable over the last few years. It’s an unbelievable venue so to go back there this year with the prize fund we have and with the backing of all the tours is huge for the game and huge for women’s golf.”

The tri-sanctioned ISPS Handa World Invitational will be the first of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere, following in the

footsteps of the ISPS HANDA Vic Open in Australia.

The tournament will count towards the European Tour’s Race to Dubai and carry Team Europe Ryder Cup points, while the women’s tournament will count towards the Race to the CME Globe for women on the LPGA Tour, the Race to Costa del Sol on the Ladies European Tour (LET) and Solheim Cup points for both Team Europe and Team USA. Not only does the tournament boast a sizeable prize fund but it will be broadcast live across the world, showcasing women’s golf on the same stage as the men, something that’s been a driving force behind Horan’s vision for Modest! Golf since the beginning.

“These girls are as gifted as the men and

Niall Horan with 2019 winners Stephanie Meadow and Jack Senior

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 33

don’t generally get the plaudits they deserve,” Horan said, whose company signed LPGA star Leona Maguire to her first professional contract in 2018.

“That’s what we’re trying to showcase here. They’re so talented. They deserve all the money and the television time. For me, this is golf trying to fulfil its potential and hopefully over the years this needle will move and we’ll always be on a level playing field.”

When it comes to plugging the gender gap in golf, Horan’s impact has huge potential. The musician’s profile commands a following of some 41million people on Twitter and 27million on Instagram, many of whom are young girls totally invested in following Horan’s lead.

“I truly believe that if we can get more women into golf, then we can change the sport completely,” Horan said. “That can be said about any sport but especially about golf, I think.

“I’ve always said that if I can get a couple of percent of my 41 million followers into golf, it’s a game-changer. A couple of percent of a lot of people is a lot of people, and this event is a hell of a starting point. It’s live on television, the first of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s a super time to be a golf fan.”

27-year old Horan was bitten by the golfing bug long before fame reached his

Brendan Lawlor

door. Inspired by Tiger Woods growing up, and immersed in the Major exploits of a raft of Irish stars punching above their weight around the globe, Horan is a self-described golf fanatic, obsessed with the game and fully motivated to improve it, despite initially underestimating the amount of work involved in such an undertaking.

I’ve always said that if I can get a couple of percent of my 41 million followers into golf, it’s a game-changer. A couple of percent of a lot of people is a lot of people, and this event is a hell of a starting point” Dr Handa and Niall Horan

34 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

“When I came up with the idea for Modest!

Golf, I didn’t realise how hard the work was going to be,” he laughed. “It’s been an amazing few years. Myself and Mark McDonnell and all the guys at Modest! Golf have been incredible getting it off the ground.

“It’s been challenging. It was hard to gain credibility at the start; trying to gain credibility with the players and within the industry itself.

But a couple of decisions we made early doors where we decided we wanted to be involved with events and wanted young up-andcoming players before we wanted to take on a top-50 player really helped. The roots of the company were good.

“It somehow unfolded from there and the signing of Tyrrell Hatton 18 months ago was a huge thing. He’s a top-10 player in the world now and really boosted the other players in our stable. It’s been an exciting time.

“Obviously the events’ side of things really took off over the last few years, too. First being involved with the Challenge Tour, and then chatting to Keith Pelley [CEO] at the European Tour. He’s been a huge believer in Modest!

Golf since day one and believed we can try to move the needle and grow the game.”

Listening to Horan speak, his passion for the game comes through in spades. The proud Irishman has never discriminated when it comes to golf, just as happy to tune into the ladies on the mini-tour as he would be the men at a Major. The Modest! Golf talent ranks are a testament to that, bolstered by the likes of Olivia Cowan and Angel Yin while the recruitment policy at Modest! always has one eye on the future, with the likes of South African hotshot Jayden Schaper and Aussie Blake Windred snapped up by Horan’s forward-thinking outfit.

Still, for all the star names, from Hatton, to Migliozzi, Bezuidenhout and Maguire, it was the signing of Brendan Lawlor, one of the world’s best disability golfers, that brought him arguably the most pride.

“It’s easy to say Tyrrell’s win in America [at the Arnold Palmer Invitational] was the standout moment for Modest! but genuinely one of my standout moments was announcing Brendan Lawlor,” Horan said.

“No one really knew we were working with him. We’d started to work with Brendan four or five months before that announcement, but we were working on bringing some partners on board and explaining that we could really help give Brendan a voice within his category and that all came to fruition.

“In the summer, he’s going to host the disability tournament, so it will be the World Invitational Disability Tournament hosted by Brendan Lawlor. He can really inspire people.

It’s incredible, he gets so many messages on social media from people who have found

Aerial view of Galgorm

The evolution of Galgorm shows no signs of stopping

GROWTH AT

GALGORM

T

ournament golf and Galgorm have come hand-in-hand for over a decade with the first Northern Ireland Open hosted at the Ballymena venue in 2010. Since then the tournament has evolved and grown every year to now become one of the most visible events in world golf.

In 2020, the five star resor t was a crucial crux in the golf machine of Ireland, hosting the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open where American John Catlin was a worthy winner, with the course receiving global acclaim.

For tourists, Galgorm might be a golfer’s paradise, but it’s also so much more than that, heaving with quirky restaurants and a lively atmosphere that makes play and stay a must. The resort’s Thermal Village is like nowhere else on the island, bubbling with outdoor hot tubs, indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and jacuzzis, all in gardens next to the River Maine.

Despite the pandemic, Galgorm has been constantly investing and players and

spectators alike will see the fruits of that labour this summer, not least through the lens of the stunning new 18th hole. Sure to build a reputation as one of the most exciting finishing holes on the island, it will play a key role in deciding the fate of this year’s ISPS HANDA World Invitational, presented by Modest! Golf.

“We very much believe that to stand still is to go backwards,” said Gary Henry, Tournament Promoter and Managing Director Galgorm Castle.

“Galgorm has always been a progressive venue and every year we re-invest in our facilities. After such a challenging, yet defining, year in 2020 when we were faced with a global pandemic but also hosted the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, we have carried out a series of significant course projects over autumn/winter.

“Further plans and developments will continue over the coming years as Galgorm builds on its reputation as a vibrant members’ club and one of Ireland’s standout tournament venues.”

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 35

Discover life on the edge

Experience The Gobbins Cliff Path on the stunning Causeway Coastal Route.

Thegobbinscliffpath.com

Charley Hull during the 2019 event

Niall Horan at the Pro-am

it hard to feel accepted within the game for whatever reason.

“For us, the ladies’ category and the disability golf are two of the biggest growth areas, so if we can help elevate that and put some people who we represent on a bigger platform to talk about that more, then we feel that’s something we want to do.

“Brendan has taught us so much more than we’ve taught him. His get-up-and-go attitude and the fact he just doesn’t see that he has a disability is so inspiring.”

There’s clear evidence that the work of Modest! Golf is already having the impact Horan and co envisaged when first dipping their toes in the game, not least, when 40,000 people streamed through the gates for the Challenge Tour’s NI Open at Galgorm in 2017, an unheard of attendance when it came to Europe’s secondary tour.

“Galgorm is a special little spot,” Horan admits. “It will be great to get back to the area.

We get very well looked after there, feel very comfortable.

“But it will also be great to get home.

Golf on the island - when society has said golf is maybe struggling a touch, I’ve always thought that in Ireland it’s getting stronger.

We saw what happened in Portrush in 2019 – the crowds were insane. One of the fastest selling Opens of all time, and at a Challenge

Stephanie Meadow holing the winning putt in 2019

If we can grow the female game, we grow the game in general. It’s as simple as that.”

Tour event we had 40,000 people through the gates at one point which is incredible.

“Hopefully coming off the back of people being vaccinated, we can get fans in the door and this event can be as big as any this year.”

Whether or not crowds are at full capacity remains to be seen but the fact that women golfers are being given a platform alongside the men to compete for equal prize money at an event being broadcast around the world can only be good for the game.

It fully supports the ISPS HANDA motto of breaking down barriers and serves the Modest! mission to drive inclusivity in sport. Horan knows he’s just a cog in the wheel of a wider movement but he’s

becoming a more and more crucial one when it comes to plugging the gender gap in golf, once and for all.

“I absolutely love golf,” Horan said. “I’m obsessed with it. Being Irish, golf is obviously a huge part of our culture and we’ve had so many great golfers over the years. Growing up watching Mr. Woods dominate the sport also made it very easy for me to get into golf and I just fell in love with the game straight away.

“I love the feeling I get seeing a player race up the leaderboard on the back nine on Sunday. I’ve seen some amazing moments at Major championships down the years, but more than anything, I’ve gone around the world and seen the power of my fans.

“A lot of those would be young females so there was a combined passion from me and knowing the power young ladies have and that can only lead to great things.

“I watch all sorts of golf. It’s always been an inclusive sport for me so it’s just about getting young girls to pick up a club. Giving it a go. You might hit fifty bad ones but if the 51st one is a good one, you’ll probably come back the next time and that’s what it’s all about. If we can grow the female game, we grow the game in general. It’s as simple as that.”

After 72-holes of stroke play at Galgorm and Massereene Golf Club over the first two days, a halfway cut will reduce the field to the top-60 professionals, including ties, in the men’s and women’s draws. The third round will take place at Galgorm before a further 54hole cut takes place with the top-35 and ties advancing to the final round on Sunday.

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 37

AUG 31 - SEPT 6

SCAN THE QR CODE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS NOW!

SOLHEIMCUPUSA.COM

AT-A-GLANCE GUIDE DATE

HOST

July 28th - August 1, 2021

Galgorm, Northern Ireland

FIELD

VENUES

288 Competitors 144 Male 144 Female (50% LPGA, 50% LET)

Galgorm, Ballymena Massereene Golf Club, Antrim

FORMAT Two 72-hole strokeplay events for men and women.

First two rounds played over Galgorm and Massereene, all competitors to play both venues.

Final two rounds (Saturday and Sunday) played at Galgorm.

Cut after Round 2 (Friday). Top 60 and ties professional men and women (minimum 120, two tee start) Cut after Round 3 (Saturday). Top 35 and ties men and women (minimum 70, first tee only start) Three balls, all men and all women.

Groups on timesheets at both venues over four days to alternate between men and women.

TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

PRIZE FUND

Monday 26th July _________ Tuesday 27th July _________ Wednesday 28th July _____ Thursday 29th July ________ Friday 30th July __________ Saturday 31st July ________ Sunday 1st August ________

US$3 MILLION

Practice Day Practice Day Pro-Am / Practice Round 1 (Galgorm / Massereene) Round 2 (Galgorm / Massereene) 36-hole cut Round 3 (Galgorm only) 54-hole cut Final round (Galgorm only)

(Split equally between men and women)

WINNERS ANNOUNCED AS

COURSES

2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational Men’s Champion 2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational Women’s Champion

Galgorm (approximate yardages), Men 7,200 yards (par 70), Women 6,402 yards (par 72).

Massereene (approximate yardages), Men 6,600 yards (par 70), Women 6,330 yards (par 72).

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 39

Explore the great outdo

NORTHERN IRELA SPA DESTINATION O

pen up a world of new discoveries, adventure and memor y-making moments with an indulgent short break at the luxurious Galgorm. Boasting worldclass hospitality and unrivalled spa, accommodation and golf facilities, the globally renowned Resort is the jewel in Northern Ireland’s hospitality crown.

With 2021 set to be the summer of ‘The Great Outdoors’, immerse yourself in the natural surroundings of Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, nestled in the countryside just outside Ballymena in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

40 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

Set within 163 acres of lush parkland, the Resort boasts breath-taking views of the River Maine which flows through the estate, offering the perfect setting to enjoy a tranquil and relaxing escape in nature’s haven.

For the ultimate overnight nature retreat, switch off and cosy up with the Shepherds Huts Bed & Breakfast experience, from £330. New for 2021, these one-bed huts are located in the Secret Meadow and are fully equipped for an authentic woodland retreat, including an outdoor bath to experience the healing and restorative benefits of the surrounding forest. This package includes Thermal Spa Village

oors at

AND’S PREMIER N

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 41

relaxation from check-in until check-out and a full Irish Breakfast in Gillies to set you up for your day.

Shake off the stresses of the day and unwind with a Two Night Dining Retreat from £540 for two guests, perfect for those occasions when one night simply isn’t enough. Guests will enjoy a relaxing stay in a luxurious guestroom, complete with complimentary mini bar and everything you need to ensure an unforgettable stay, including A La Carte breakfast each morning. Experience a taste of Galgorm with a sumptuous three course evening meal on one evening in Gillies Grill. For something sweet, savour a seasonal Afternoon Tea in The Conservatory on an afternoon of your choice. No stay would be complete without relaxation in the awardwinning Thermal Spa Village where you can immerse yourself in total relaxation at your leisure. Visit the Thermal Spa’s many outdoor attractions including vitality pool, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms, recline on cabanas or take a stroll through the Resort’s Mulberry garden and experience the restorative powers of nature.

Treat yourself to some well-earned relaxation with an overnight stay at the Resort’s Riverside Log Cabin Bed & Breakfast experience, from £510. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay in a spacious Riverside Log Cabin, complete with everything you need for a relaxing retreat in the great outdoors. Situated on the banks of the River Maine, a short walk from the main Hotel, the riverside Log Cabins are perfect for families or groups who prefer a little more

42 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

seclusion and privacy. Relax at your leisure with a private hot tub located on the terrace.

Voted Best Spa Experience across the UK and Ireland at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2021, the Resort recently unveiled its new, dramatically enhanced Thermal Spa Village, including a stunning vitality pool on the shores of the River Maine, a Palm House relaxation area and bar, and a brand-new Salt Cave for halotherapy experiences. Dine al fresco to the sound of the River Maine flowing past with lunch at Elements Café, offering guests a relaxing environment for a nourishing interlude during your journey of rediscovery.

Graze on a selection of freshly prepared tasting slates or hand baked pastries created using locally sourced ingredients.

For golfing enthusiasts, tee off on one of Ireland’s finest Championship parklands at Galgorm Castle, host of this week’s ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf and venue for the 2020 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open on the European Tour. Round off the day with a bite to eat at Castle Kitchen + Bar where the distinct warmth and ambience make it a space for all occasions and tastes. An eclectic mix of classic pub starters alongside Mexican bites, daily chef specials and house-made desserts are sure to ignite your taste buds after a day spent on the green.

Galgorm is recognised as Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venue and has been staging professional golf events for over a decade. From the Northern Ireland Open to this week’s ISPS HANDA World Invitational, some of the best players in

the game return each year to compete and stay at Galgorm. This week’s tournament is the first tri-sanctioned event between the European Tour, LPGA and LET to take place in the northern hemisphere.

We look forward to welcoming you to a great week of tournament golf at Galgorm.

To explore The Great Outdoors packages available at Galgorm, visit: www.galgorm.com/ explorethegreatoutdoors or get in touch via email reservations@galgorm.com or phone 048 25 882554.

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 43

Driving digital innovation Unified Communications IT Support Connectivity Networking Business Mobile

www.b4bgroup.ie

ISPS HANDA World Invitational Official IT and Telecoms Partner

MURPHY BOOKS PLACE WITH WIN ON PRO DEBUT The Kinsale golfer made a dramatic start to his professional career with a win at Cairndhu

K

insale’s John Murphy made all on his professional debut to book his place in the US$3m ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented

by Modest! Golf.

The proud Cork man, who only turned pro last month, added a two-under 68 to his opening 67 for a four-shot win at five-under par at the £10,000 Clutch Pro Tour’s Northern Ireland Open presented by Modest! Golf at Cairndhu Golf Club. .

The former Louisville star, who won the Byron Nelson award during his time with the Cardinals, is looking forward to a European Tour start Galgorm and Massereene this week.

Murphy will be joined in the field by Ballymena’s Dermot McElroy who defeated K Club professional Liam Grehan in a playoff for the second qualifying spot after the pair tied at one-under par in regulation play. It’s another opportunity for the EuroPro Tour regular who grabbed his recent Irish Challenge start with both hands at Portmarnock Links, taking home the Christy O’Connor Jnr trophy for his share of fourth in Dublin.

NI Open winners Thalia Martin and John Murphy receive their trophies at Cairndhu (Photo: Andy Crook)

England’s Thalia Martin was t h e leading female player and she too qualified to line up against the LPGA and LET stars this week.

The 2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational is one of the most innovative events in world golf. It is the first time an event of this format is tri-sanctioned by the European Tour, LPGA Tour and LET in the northern hemisphere where men and women professionals compete in two separate events at the same time at the same venues and for the same prize money.

The ISPS HANDA World Invitational boasts a field of 288 players, 144 men and 144 women.

The women’s field will be split equally between the LPGA and the Ladies European Tour.

(Photos: Andy Crook)

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 45

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Aideen Walsh (Lahinch) and Robert Moran (Castle) after winning the ISPS HANDA Ulster Men’s and Women’s Stroke Play Championship at Royal County Down (Photo: Golffile)

MORAN AND WALSH

MAKE THEIR MARK AT RCD R ob er t Moran (Cas tle) and Aideen Walsh (Lahinch) won the ISPS HANDA Ulster Men’s and Women’s Stroke Play Championships at Royal County Down Golf Club to book their place at Galgorm and Massereene this week.

Last month’s 54-hole event came right down to the wire for the men as overnight leader Rowan Lester (Hermitage) and Moran needed an additional threehole play-off at the famous County Down links to separate them.

Moran, who arrived at 3am the night before play began having travelled from the St. Andrew’s Links Trophy in Scotland, shot a final round 69 to force the play-off.

“I’m just delighted, I kind of went out with no expectations, I was seven shots behind the leaders but on this golf course you never know what’s going to happen, it’s so hard. When I finished, I didn’t know what was happening but then I saw the scores and got a little excited.”

The 21-year-old is studying Business at the National College of Ireland but will be studying how his game compares to the world’s best as he tees it up in this week’s ISPS HANDA World Invitational. Lester also booked his place this week.

Leading duo book their place to compete alongside the professionals at Galgorm and Massereene “To get an opportunity to play at the ISPS HANDA World Invitational, especially as it’s at home in Ireland, is something I’m really excited about. Hopefully my friends and family can come and watch. I’m looking forward to seeing where my game’s at and giving it a rip.”

Walsh had a somewhat less stressful finish as she closed out an eight-stroke win over 2019 winner Jessica Ross from Clandeboye.

“I’d a few birdies to start and was threeunder for the front nine. I just tried to continue that form on the back, and I finished well. I

can’t believe I won to be honest.”

Walsh took a one-stroke advantage into the final round and her focus throughout the day was to stay present.

“My coach txt me and said it’s just another round of golf and that’s all it was, I tried to stick to that while I was playing and not get ahead of myself.”

Walsh has won the Women’s Interprovincial Matches with Munster and the Women’s Senior Cup with Lahinch, but this was her first individual win.

“It’s a bit mad to be honest I never thought I would win of these I just sort of played in them, but I can’t believe it. It is different alright not having the team around you but it’s still unbelievable.”

Walsh will join Moran and Lester in the ISPS HANDA World Invitational at Galgorm Castle and Massereene. The unique global event is part of the European Tour, LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour schedules and has attracted some of the best men and women players in the game.

(Photo: Thos Caffrey/Golffile)

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 47

H

eadlining a list of brilliant golf courses is Royal County Down which was Golf Digest’s Number One Course in the World (2017,2018, 2019). The narrow, carpet like fairways meander their way through the sanddunes, while purple heather and yellow gorse bushes frame each hole.

Royal County Down has been synonymous with hosting the biggest events in professional and amateur golf, including the 2015 Irish Open. Rory McIlroy and Jonathan Caldwell were in Walker Cup action there in 2007, while The Amateur Championship, Ladies 48 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

Northern Ireland is one of the world’s leading golfing destinations, with its iconic golf courses and storied history Amateur and countless other championships have been staged there over the years.

More recently the European Ladies’ Team Championship was held there in July plus the 2021 ISPS HANDA Ulster Men’s and Women’s Stroke Play Championship.

Royal Portrush famously hosted The 148th Open in 2019. The Open quickly became the fastest selling event in the Championship’s history, and with over 237,000 spectators

it broke more records as the best-attended Open outside of St Andrews, the home of golf.

The Harry Colt layout is seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. The fairways and greens appear miniscule as they cut their way through the natural rugged terrain while large grass dunes frame numerous holes.

Portstewart boasts three magnificent true links courses with the Championship Strand Course host to the 2017 Irish Open

Royal County Down Golf Club

Ardglass Golf Club

Portstewart Golf Club

Royal Portrush Golf Club

which was won by Spain’s Jon Rahm. The Strand Course is able to hold its head high alongside Royal County Down and Royal Portrush as one of the top links courses in Northern Ireland. The stand-out features of the Strand Course are the undulating dunes, run off bunkers, rolling fairways and tricky undulating putting surfaces. Described

by Rahm as ‘one of the most beautiful golf courses I have ever seen’.

There are also a wealth of hidden gems such as Ardglass Golf Club in Co. Down and Castlerock Golf Club in Derry ~Londonderry.

Galgorm & Massereene, host courses of the ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 49

Royal Belfast Golf Club

Castlerock Golf Club

ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented

by Modest! Golf are two of Antrim’s finest championship parkland courses. Close to Belfast City Centre you will find our third Royal, Royal Belfast Golf Club. A fine test of parkland golf. With over 90 golf clubs and four superb resorts there is something for everyone in Northern Ireland.

It is not just the world class golfers that are returning to play our world class courses. You can too! And because we know you have been away from the course for too long, we have an extensive range of 1-3 night stay and play deals available, covering all of our regions. It is officially tee time!

For a full list of stay & play deals visit our website here.

50 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

In a land Made for Golf, a Giant Spirit awaits, check out our latest video celebrating the best of golf in Northern Ireland, with voiceover by James Nesbitt, OBE here.

Whether you are playing or spectating, there’s a thriving competitive golf scene in Northern Ireland to enjoy. It is officially tee time and world class golfing awaits. All things golf can be found here.

DISCOVER NORTHERN IRELAND Off the course, there is a wealth of activities for your trip. Our new brand “Embrace a Giant Spirit” is coming to life through a collection of new and unique experiences.

You will be surprised and awakened by our Giant experiences – of culture, landscapes, our legends, our cities, our

coast and our food. This is the undiscovered corner of the island of Ireland. There is space here and time to enjoy it. Our experiences emphasise the unusual, the original and the distinctively Northern Irish. Are you ready to escape the routine and plan your next Giant Adventure in Northern Ireland? Check out our latest TV advert here.

In a land built by giants where stunning views and wild, rugged coastlines demand awe and surprise, Northern Ireland is steeped in the spirit of adventure. For those on the lookout for an adrenaline-filled break away – you’ll find plenty to choose from to fulfil the thrill seeker in you.

To give you some inspiration, Discover Northern Ireland has compiled a list of actionpacked activities in every county that are

approved with our ‘We’re Good to Go’ industry standard, and will surely get your heart racing.

PREPARE TO GET WET IN BELFAST Water thrills and more.... If you enjoy waterbased fun, then Let’s Go Hydro is a must see and do experience. Visitors and locals love the range of aqua activity on offer at this exciting water sports. The impressive outdoor attraction, including an inflatable floating obstacle course, provides fun for all.

The course features an XXL Tower, slides, climbing wall, hurdles, wiggle disks, ramp, podiums and a floating trampoline. What are you waiting for? https://letsgohydro.com/ Belfast is suitable to those who like the finer things too, with Michelin star dining and world-renowned tourist attractions.

WELCOME TO JUNGLE NI IN COUNTY LONDONDERRY

S

tep into your wild side and unleash the adventurer in you with the Tarzan Tree Top Adventure at Jungle NI. With over 50 exciting high wire obstacles, some up to 70ft high and then rope bridges, scramble nets, tunnels, Tarzan swings, tree top zipline, and of course the fantastic, spinetingling Power Fan Drop which lets you experience the rush of a free fall Parachute jump – without the parachute!

They also have Zorbing, paintball, laser

tag and archery all on offer to get your blood pumping. Why not stay over in the Glamping Pods while enjoying a roaring campfire, a tasty BBQ and some awesome activities?

The real star of the show, however, is the city’s historic 400 year old walls, and no visit to Derry-Londonderry would be complete without a walk around them.

Check out our Discover Derry ~ Londonderry video here

For more information on great places to visit, a full list of giant adventures and for things to see and do - check out www.discovernorthernireland.com.

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 51

GALGORM HOLE-BY-HOLE

52 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE GALGORM: Holes 1-3

Par 4 469

HOLE 1:

Lillyvale Tough opening hole. Long hitters can go over the corner. Keep approach shot to left hand side of green as it slopes left to right.

Par 4 336

Par 4 437

Par 4 312

HOLE 2:

Par 4 402

Spences

Par 4 295

Par 4 370

Right hand side of the fairway leaves a simple approach to the green.

Par 4 260

HOLE 3:

Trout Hole It’s further to the corner than you think! Right hand side of the fairway opens up the hole.

Par 5 479

Par 5 479

Par 5 466

Par 5 459

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 53

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE GALGORM: Holes 4-6

HOLE 4:

Par 4 323

Par 3 208

Par 4 323

Par 3 197

The Niuc

Par 4 300

The further you go, the tighter the fairway.

Right hand side of the green is safe.

Par 4 279

HOLE 5:

Par 3 167

Walkers Home Take an extra club as it plays longer than it looks.

Par 3 146

HOLE 6:

Broadmeadows Tee shot must be down the left hand side of the fairway. Long and left with the approach will end up in the water.

Par 4 473

Par 4 419

Par 4 382

Par 4 345

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 55

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE GALGORM: Holes 7-9

Par 3 159 Par 3 138

HOLE 7:

The Treasury Anything short and right will end up in the water.

Par 4 433 Par 4 401

HOLE 8:

Par 3 131

Sanctuary

Par 4 352

Par 3 119

Keep the tee shot left of the bunker. Anything left of the green will end up in trouble.

Par 4 322

HOLE 9:

Longlands Aim to the right hand side of the fairway to take the water out of play. Approach shot should be aimed for the left hand side of the green.

Par 5 513

Par 5 513

Par 5 486

Par 5 449

ISPS HANDA World Invitational • 57

HERE’S TO THE MOMENT

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE GALGORM: Holes 10-12

Par 5 575

HOLE 10:

Par 5 521

The Fort

Par 5 477

Left hand side avoids the water and leaves a clear shot to the green.

Par 5 421

Par 4 485 Par 4 446

HOLE 11:

Piat

Another dog-leg hole where the corner is further away than it looks. Right hand side of the green takes the bunker out of play.

Par 4 428 Par 4 354

HOLE 12:

Arthur’s Seat Right hand side of the green leaves an uphill putt.

Par 3 190

Par 3 158

Par 3 143

Par 3 130

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE GALGORM: Holes 13-15

HOLE 13:

Par 4 575

Par 3 485

Par 4 521

Par 3 446

The Maple

Par 4 477

Position the tee shot to the left hand side of the fairway, leaving a simple approach to the green.

Par 4 421

HOLE 14:

Par 3 428

Devil’s Elbow

Par 3 354

Left hand side of the green is a safe shot.

HOLE 15:

Beechers Left hand side of the fairway avoids the water which cannot be seen from the tee.

Par 4 190

Par 4 158

Par 4 143

Par 4 130

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE GALGORM: Holes 16-18

Par 4 443

HOLE 16:

Par 4 417

Par 4 457 Par 4 457

HOLE 17:

Grove

Par 4 362

Lowlands

Par 4 408

A tee shot up the right hand side leaves a shorter approach.

Par 4 333

The fairway slopes left to right. Short of the flag leaves an uphill putt.

Par 4 339

HOLE 18:

Shirley’s Cottage Two big hits to reach this green.

The green slopes gently from left to right.

Par 5 555

Par 5 526

Par 5 509

Par 5 457

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MASSEREE GOLF CLUB HOLE-BY-HOLE

64 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE MASSEREENE GOLF CLUB: Holes 1-3

HOLE 1:

Par 4 365

Rhododendrons

Par 4 353

Favour right half of fairway to leave shorter approach.

Par 4 322

ENE B

Par 4 401

HOLE 2:

Par 4 389

Firfields Second shot always plays longer than yardage.

Par 4 361

HOLE 3:

Wee Dunt Keep approach shot to right half of the green.

Par 3 131

Par 3 121

Par 3 103

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE MASSEREENE GOLF CLUB: Holes 4-6

HOLE 4:

Par 4 365

Par 4 378

HOLE 5:

Fairy Hill

Par 4 354

Bourtrees

Par 4 366

210 yard shot from tee leaves short iron approach.

Par 4 298

Favouring the right side of the fairway opens up approach.

Par 4 314

HOLE 6:

Devil’s Elbow Longer hitters can take over the line of the firs.

Par 3 444

Par 3 431

Par 3 373

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE MASSEREENE GOLF CLUB: Holes 7-9

HOLE 7:

Par 5 552

Par 3 197

HOLE 8:

Shane’s Castle

Par 5 540

Poplars

Par 3 190

Line of the tee is firs left side as fairway is more left than it seems.

Par 5 475

Long or hybrid to middles of the green will allow this hole to play a lot easier than attacking pin.

Par 3 177

HOLE 9:

The Gap Finish short of fairway bunker to allow best angle of attack to the pin.

Par 4 326

Par 4 313

Par 4 290

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE MASSEREENE GOLF CLUB: Holes 10-12

HOLE 10:

Par 5 515

Par 3 198

HOLE 11:

Sixmilewater

Par 5 494

Bluebells

Par 3 183

Longer hitters favour the right half of the fairway for a chance to hit the green in two.

Par 5 439

Favouring left side of the green allows for easier putts up this green.

Par 3 176

HOLE 12:

Mound Keep the driver in the bag, long irons leave a short approach to tight green.

Par 4 344

Par 4 337

Par 4 329

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HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE MASSEREENE GOLF CLUB: Holes 13-15

HOLE 13:

Par 4 552

HOLE 14:

Par 3 154

Joe’s & Pat’s

Par 4 540

Slieve Gallion

Par 3 148

Shaping a draw of this hole will encourage a friendly bounce to encourage more yards.

Par 4 475

Keep an eye on the wind coming from the Lough - plays a big factor.

Par 3 122

HOLE 15:

Plateau Shot laying up in front of the water leaves short iron approach.

Par 4 326

72 • ISPS HANDA World Invitational

Par 4 313

Par 4 290

HOLE-BY-HOLE GUIDE MASSEREENE GOLF CLUB: Holes 16-18

HOLE 16:

Par 5 512

Par 4 426

HOLE 17:

Lough

Par 5 481

Deer’s Leap

Par 4 414

Line of the tee is at the bridge, more room to right than perceived.

Par 5 408

At the lonely tree with a draw leaves the best angle for this tough approach shot.

Par 4 331

HOLE 18:

Tom Kelly’s Let one fly off this elevated tee trying to avoid the bunker on the left.

Par 4 344

Par 4 337

Par 4 329

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