Northern Ireland 'is golfing powerhouse'

28 April 2009 -

Despite Northern Ireland's relatively small size, the country is a "golf powerhouse", it has been claimed.

Writing on the PGA Tour website, David Brice, president of Golf International, commented that one month would not be enough time to play all the courses that demand to be tried in the region.

He continued: "Excellent courses are everywhere and because the country is so small and manageable, they are all easily accessible, located within a short drive of each other."

Earlier this year, Golf Digest Magazine's 2009 ranking of the World's Best 100 Courses Outside of the US placed Royal County Down in first position and Royal Portrush at number four.

He added that the nation's best courses are within easy driving distance of Londonderry, also known as Derry, and Belfast, giving enthusiasts the chance to take easy advantage of city pleasures such as shopping, dining and hotels.

At the end of July, golfing superstars Padraig Harrington and Rory McIIroy will go head to head in a $300,000 (£203,000) match at the new Lough Erne course in County Fermanagh, which has been designed by legendary player Nick Faldo.