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ore than 25,000 spectators were expected to attend last week’s KPMG Women’s Irish Open at Dromoland Castle’s 18-hole Championship Course. Supported by the Government and Clare County Council, the return of the Ladies European Tour (LET) event marks the first time since 2012 that women's professional golf has been staged in the Republic of Ireland. The Open was also broadcast live on Sky Sports, RTÉ and the Golf Channel.

Ireland’s leading female golfer Leona Maguire was the star attraction in the event, which commenced with a Pro-Am competition on Wednesday 21st September with the main event getting underway Thursday and continuing through Sunday. The two-time Olympian is currently ranked 16th Rolex Women’s Rankings.

Cllr. Tony O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, congratulated Dromoland Castle on securing the rights to host the prestigious golfing event, adding that it offers a huge opportunity for Clare to once again promote the golfing experience on offer in Clare to a national and international, audience.

“When it comes to golf, we really are spoiled for choice in Clare - a fact not lost on visitors who travel from around the world to play on our links and parkland courses. There are eleven top-class courses in the county, and most are open year-round,” he explained.

Clare County Council hosted a marquee on the grounds of Dromoland Castle to promote Clare as an attractive destination for golf enthusiasts, as well as showcase Clare’s abundance of visitor attractions and activities. Visit Clare were present to distribute information on the local tourism sector, while Local Enterprise Office Clare hosted producers from across Clare to exhibit artisan food, drink and photography.

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, commented in advance of the event, “We are proud to be associated with the KPMG Women’s Irish Open and are delighted to support Mark Nolan and his staff at Dromoland Castle in hosting this prestigious event.”

“The number of golf visitors to the island of Ireland continues to grow year on year and this event offers the local tourism sector the opportunity to further promote Clare as popular destination for golfing trips,” added Mr. Dowling.

Visit Dromoland Castle’s website

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