GOLF: Numbers up for Tullamore Dew

When the welcoming reception is held at Royal Portrush on Sunday, June 6 there will be a field of some 800 golfers.

They will hail from all the home nations the Republic of Ireland, America, Canada and Europe, among them players from France, Switzerland, Germany and Spain.

Tournament director, Raymond Eakin, told the Times: "Last year we had around 650 to 700 players and this year it will be 800.

"We have plans to cap the numbers at 800 in the future so that we can cut down on some of the slow play and the problems that causes."

Raymond added that another new feature of the 2010 event was the new tournament website www.tullamoredewgolf.com

This will feature a wide range of tournament information, entry forms a photo gallery and score tracker.

Raymond added that he was delighted that Tullamore Dew is sponsoring the tournament for the fourth year running.

Once again the international event will be played over the local courses of Portrush Valley, Portstewart, Ballycastle and Castlerock from June 7 to 11.

The prizegiving ceremony will be staged in the magnificent new clubhouse at Portstewart on Friday, June 11.

The four-day 72-hole stableford competition, for teams of four as well as individuals, attracts some of very talented amateurs and the tournament is renowned for its friendliness and outstanding hospitality.

Brian Greer, Marketing Coordinator for James E McCabes Ltd, distribution agents for Tullamore Dew in Northern Ireland, said: "We have been delighted to continue support for this prestigious sporting event.

"With its great international profile, huge popularity and fine reputation, the Causeway Coast Amateur Golf Tournament is the perfect platform for Tullamore Dew. As the market leader in many European markets, and as a truly international award-winning Irish whiskey, Tullamore Dew is an ideal partner."