GOLF: Ballygowan sign three year deal for the Irish Open

The sponsorship announcement comes as the prestigious event is set to return to Northern Ireland for the first time in nearly sixty years. The world class Royal Portrush Golf Club will host the 2012 Irish Open at the end of June.

The agreement of the iconic Irish brand and leader in the Irish bottled water market with the Tour aims to capitalize on the unprecedented success and continued domination of home grown players on The European Tour including World Number One Rory McIlroy, reigning Open Champion Darren Clarke, former US Open Champion Graeme McDowell and three-time Major winner Padraig Harrington.

Kevin Donnelly, Marketing Director Britvic Ireland commented: “Ballygowan Natural Mineral Water is thrilled to be sponsoring the Irish Open.

“We have a long and proud tradition of supporting sporting events across the island of Ireland and in this momentous year as the eyes of the world continue to focus on Northern Ireland’s world class players there has never been a better time to be associated with golf and the golfing world and this very special Championship.”

James Finnigan, Commercial Director of The European Tour commented; “We are delighted to continue our long established relationship with Ballygowan and look forward to join forces with them at Royal Portrush to ensure a highly successful return to Northern Ireland for the Irish Open”.