Portmarnock and Nissan take over for Irish Open

Portmarnock Golf Club was today confirmed as the new venue for the revamped Irish Open, with Nissan being announced as the new tournament sponsor.

The news finally puts an end to fears for the competition's future following the withdrawal of former tour sponsors Murphy's.

The exact time frame of the deal is not yet finalised according to Mr. Gerard O'Toole, Chief Executive of Nissan Ireland, but ireland.com understands that the current arrangement is for a minimum of two years.

The competition is now scheduled for 24th - 27th of July and the decision to return to the venue that hosted the event on 12 occasions between 1976 and 1990 will be a popular one.

Speaking at this afternoon's announcement Ken Schofield, Executive Director of the European Tour, welcomed the partnership between Nissan Ireland and Bord Failte.

"We are delighted to welcome Nissan Ireland as Title Sponsors of the Irish Open and to congratulate both them and Bord Fáilte for their foresight in forming a partnership, with the support of Murray Consultants, which will further enhance the development of this outstanding Championship."

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, John O'Donoghue T.D. echoed those sentiments saying: "The Irish Open is unquestionably the pivotal tournament in our golfing calendar, with a prestigious history dating back to 1927.

"The profile of the 2003 competition will be greatly enhanced by its positioning on one of the premium dates of the summer. I am also delighted to welcome a company of the calibre of Nissan Ireland as Title Sponsor and look forward to a long and fruitful association," he added.

As expected the prize purse will also be increased by €400,000 to make it a €2 million event.

The new calendar slot was traditionally occupied by the Dutch Open but has recently become vacant following sponsorship issues in the Netherlands.

The event had previously been staged in the last week of June, making it difficult for the tournament to attract top names who often preferred the rest themselves in preparation for the British Open in mid-July.