THE Royal and Ancient have ruled out Portmarnock as a possible venue for the British Open championship in the foreseeable future. Familiar with key elements of the north Dublin links from the staging of the Walker Cup in 1991, the and A feel that access would be a problem. As to the notion of a `British' Open being staged in the Republic of Ireland, it should be noted that the event is designated `The Open' as far as the R and A are concerned.

There was also bad news for Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, who were pushing for a chance to hold the championship on the famous links course. A study has concluded that logistically, it is thought to be too big a problem at the moment.

The eight courses currently on the Open rota are Lytham, Troon (next year's venue), Birkdale (1998), Carnoustie (back in 1999 for the first time since 1975), St Andrews (2000), Muirfield, Turnberry and Sandwich.