Cairndhu Confirmed as 2021 NI Open Venue

As part of the 2021 ISPS HANDA World Invitational presented by Modest! Golf, this year’s Northern Ireland Open will take place at one of Antrim’s most scenic venues at Cairndhu Golf Club and is part of the UK and Ireland’s Clutch Tour.

For over a decade the NI Open has been played at Galgorm where this year’s ISPS HANDA World Invitational will take place from July 28 – August 1, 2021. This year the NI Open moves to Cairndhu where men and women professionals will have the chance to win a place at the ISPS HANDA World Invitational through this dedicated qualifying event.

The 36-hole strokeplay event will take place on June 14-15 where men and women professionals compete for a £10,000 prize fund as a Clutch Tour event and also have the chance to compete alongside European Tour, LPGA Tour and Ladies European Tour (LET) players. For full details on how to enter please visit https://www.clutchprotour.co.uk

“I am so delighted that we are able to offer a qualifying event for the ISPS HANDA World Invitational in partnership with the Clutch Pro Tour,” explained Niall Horan, owner Modest! Golf owner, who also support the Clutch Tour.

“Modest! Golf continually provide opportunities for the next generation of golfer and we hope this year’s NI Open provides golfers with a route to compete and qualify for one of the most exciting and unique events on the LPGA, LET and European Tour schedule.”

As part of the wider reach of the internationally acclaimed ISPS HANDA World Invitational, the NI Open brings further economic benefits to the local area and also showcases another great golfing location within the borough.

“I am delighted that the excellent facilities at Cairndhu will play host to some of the game’s leading professionals for the NI Open on June 14-15, which will further showcase Mid and East Antrim, and all that our borough has to offer,” said Councillor Peter Johnston, Mayor Mid & East Antrim Borough Council.

“The last 12 months have been challenging for us all so it is very positive news that we can look forward to brighter days ahead, with the return of such a significant sporting event and the ISPS HANDA World Invitational at Galgorm from July 29 to August 1.

“It is a very welcome development to see the NI Open expand across the borough so that we can increase the reach, benefits and exposure that the event affords us in terms of supporting our local tourism industry and wider economy, while also supporting the local sporting fraternity.

“Council is delighted to work closely with the event organisers, and we remain very hopeful that the restrictions will be sufficiently relaxed to allow spectators and visitors to enjoy the tournaments when the time comes.”

The NI Open will follow government guidelines and further details on spectators will be announced in due course.

The NI Open is another great opportunity for men and women professionals across the island of Ireland and the UK to not only compete in an established event, but also progress to a global event like the ISPS HANDA World Invitational that will be broadcast around the world.

"I am thrilled that that the NI Open as a professional qualifying event for the ISPS HANDA World Invitational is coming to Cairndhu Golf Club,” said Sandra Conlan, Cairndhu Lady Captain.

“I look forward to welcoming all the competitors that will compete in the Clutch Tour event - especially the lady professionals - to experience our hidden gem of a course on the beautiful East Antrim Coast where they will enjoy two great days of golf."

David Johnston, Cairndhu Club Captain, added: "I am absolutely delighted to welcome the NI Open as this year’s qualifying event for the ISPS HANDA World Invitational to Cairndhu Golf Club, and to play a part in driving the game forward with an event that provides equality and inclusivity.”

“I hope in hosting the NI Open, we will have the opportunity to showcase our course, the stunning scenery and our world-famous hospitality."