All eyes focused on Killarney

GOLF:THIS WEEK'S Irish Open presented by Discover Ireland at Killarney Golf and Fishing Club will, as James Finnegan of the European Tour put it, have "the eyes of the golfing world" on it for a number of reasons.

First, it marks Darren Clarke’s competitive return as a Major champion; and, second, it offers the tournament an opportunity to showcase itself to a title sponsor.

Fáilte Ireland and the PGA European Tour are putting up the bulk of the staging costs and prizemoney for the €1.5 million tournament, which was left without a title sponsor when 3 withdrew its support after last year.

“We are in the shop window this week,” Finnegan said. “There are people (potential sponsors) coming here to look at this golf tournament and we are going to make sure they see a class event.”

The event, featuring this golden generation of Irish golfers, with three-time Major winner Pádraig Harrington joined in the field by Clarke and US Open champions Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell, is expected to attract crowds of over 100,000 over the four days.

Last year’s tournament, which was won by England’s Ross Fisher, who defends the title, was worth around €30 million to the region.

Killarney are keen to retain the tournament in 2012, although there is increased interest from other areas in staging it, most notably in the north, where it possibly could serve to showcase Royal Portrush’s ability to play host to a big event in the course’s efforts to get back on the British Open rota.

Finnegan said venues will be named in tandem with any title sponsor’s wishes.

“We work on the golden rule, (of) looking to get a new sponsor on board – and we have some interested parties – and we will sit down with them and discuss venue strategy.

“The one thing we have here is confidence in Killarney . . . a very committed club and a very committed town.”