Fermanagh's Lough Erne Golf Resort is set to host the inaugural Lough Erne Challenge in July featuring Rory McIlroy 19, who has taken the world of professional golf by storm and established champion golfer Padraig Harrington.
A prize fund of $300,000 will add to the competition for the Belleek Trophy and a limit of 4,000 tic
kets has been set.
Jim Treacy, resort owner said it is important the golf course qualities are tested by the world's best.
"The fact that two of the most important and exciting figures in world golf are Irish and both are in the world's top 20 made it compelling to pit them against each other in this special event.
" We believe all golf fans and those with a passing interest in the game will be attracted to seeing Padraig and Rory do battle. Northern Ireland golf fans in particular have been starved of this kind of opportunity for too long and we look forward to welcoming them to Lough Erne on July 22," he said.
News was welcomed by Tourism Minister Arlene Foster who said Lough Erne Resort is a striking example of what can be achieved with foresight and courage and the AA five star resort in Enniskillen is a huge benefit, to local and Northern Ireland economy.
"Establishment of this new event is further evidence of confidence in the future of Northern Ireland tourism. Padraig Harrington and Rory McIlroy's participation means Lough Erne Challenge will generate significant TV exposure in critical markets in Europe and across North America, putting Northern Ireland on the international map as a must visit destination for tourists and business travellers," said the Minister
The Lough Erne Championship course was designed by the legendary Nick Faldo who designed the course said:"Padraig and Rory are among the very best in the world right now and they have massive global reputations which will help attract interest in Lough Erne and Fermanagh. I believe the golf course will emerge to be a top golfing location but it is important to emphasise the extraordinary beauty of the whole area and staging this event should help to bring this message to a wider audience."
Rory McIlroy said:"The opportunity to play against Padraig on what is in some ways my home turf is exciting. He is a fantastic player, a real role model for someone like me starting out on my career. Jim Treacy has been a real support to me and I have watched the development of the Championship course at Lough Erne with great interest. It is spectacular. To play Padraig in the inaugural event will be very special."
