Epic Journey arrives in Portrush

In the lead up to the Championship returning to Royal Portrush in July, Tourism Northern Ireland is undertaking a four-stop tour as excitement builds.

More than 270,000 golf fans are expected to make the journey to the region’s famous North Coast to watch some of the world’s top golfers in action from July 13-20.

Today, at Kerr Street Green in Portrush, residents, local school children and visitors gathered to have their photo taken with the famous Claret Jug and Tourism NI’s giant `The Open’ letter sculpture, which is made out of 4,000 golf balls.

The sculpture was unveiled by 2025 Masters champion Rory McIlroy, ahead of the 2019 Championship.  

Those who gathered today also had the chance to show off their golf skills and try their hand at Tourism Northern Ireland's `Can you chip it like Rory?' washing machine challenge.

Among those who attended today’s event was Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald.

The Minister said: “The return of the Open to Portrush this summer is fantastic news. The 2019 Championship brought huge economic benefits, not just to the North Coast, but to the whole of the region, and 2025 will be no different.

“The 153rd Open is shaping up to be another world-class sporting event which will also strengthen the north’s international profile as a travel and golf destination, as well as a fantastic place to invest.

“Tourism NI’s Epic Journey allows everyone to get involved in the build-up to what promises to be an unforgettable week."

The next stop on the tour is Ebrington Square in Derry on May 7 and Tullamore, Co Offaly – home of 2019 Champion Golfer of the Year, Shane Lowry – on May 21.