Ladies Irish Open at Killeen gets prime slot

Golf: Next year’s Ladies Irish Open will provide players from Europe and the USA their only opportunity to play competitively at Killeen Castle ahead of the 2011 Solheim Cup.

The event moves from Portmarnock Links to the Co Meath course, host venue for the next Solheim Cup, for one year only and it is hoped a number of leading American players will take in the tournament.

European team captain Alison Nicholas has already indicated that she will be encouraging her players to compete in next year's Irish Open after the Ladies European Tour (LET) confirmed the 2010 schedule today.

The event occupies a prime spot in the schedule, falling a week after the British Open. It also coincides with a free week on the LPGA Tour which could persuade many of the American players to familiarise themselves with the Killeen course.

Officials also announced four more events next year compared to this year's schedule. The season kicks off in New Zealand next February and, after 27 events, culminates with the Dubai Ladies Masters in December.