News

2011

Day 3

Norway’s Suzann Pettersen earned a six stroke victory with a stunning final round of 64 at the Ladies Irish Open supported by Fáilte Ireland on Sunday.

The world no.3 scored rounds of 71, 63 and 64 to finish at 18 under par for the tournament ahead of Spain’s Azahara Munoz.

With her course record 63 on Saturday and eight under par round on Sunday, Pettersen blitzed the rest of the field with a score of 17 under par for the weekend.

It was her second Irish Open victory after a five-stroke win at Portmarnock Links in 2008. Having tied for 23rd at Killeen Castle in 2010, she was delighted to have shown her class on The 2011 Solheim Cup course.

For the remainder of the article from the LET website, please click here.

Day 2

Pettersen & Schreefel Lead

World no.3 Suzann Pettersen of Norway and Dewi Claire Schreefel of the Netherlands lead the field by one shot after a rain interrupted second round of the Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland at Killeen Castle.

Pettersen, a previous winner of the this title in 2008, shot a stunning course record of 63 to take the lead on 10 under in the early part of the day. Her spectacular round included seven birdies and one eagle at the seventh. Schreefel playing later in the day finished with a 66 to join Pettersen at the top of the leaderboard just before the suspension of play.

One shot further back on 9 under is Spaniard Azahara Munoz who shot a four under par 68. There is a group of five players a shot further back from the Spaniard on eight under including Melissa Reid and round one co-leader Alison Walshe of the USA

Best of the Irish again is 16-year old amateur Lisa Maguire who again showed her class by shooting a solid 68.

The third and final round commences at 7.30 tomorrow with the leaders due to tea off at 12.18. The full draw can be accessed here.

Round 2 scores can be accessed here.

Day 1

Caudal and Walshe head Irish Open field

France's Anne-Lise Caudal and American Alison Walshe led the field by one shot after the first round of the Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland at Killeen Castle, Dunsany, Co Meath.

The pair carded six-under-par 66s to lie ahead of South Africa's Lee-Anne Pace, Sweden's Maria Hjorth and Spain's Azahara Munoz Guijarro.

Early starter Caudal carded two eagles at the par-five second and seventh holes, five birdies and three bogeys in an eventful round. Walshe, who was born in Galway, Ireland, but raised in the United States, had seven birdies and a single bogey to tie for the lead late in the day.

For the remainder of this article from the LET website please click here.

For round 2 order of play click here.

For round 2 live scoring click here.

First round under way at Ladies Irish Open, hosted by Fáilte Ireland

Today’s opening round of the Ladies Irish Open, hosted by Fáilte Ireland, is under way on a crisp, beautiful morning at Killeen Castle in Co Meath, Ireland.

Play started under a bright sky at 8am with light airs and forecasted high temperatures of 15-18 degrees Celsius.

Solheim Cup hopefuls Melissa Reid, Karen Stupples and Sandra Gal teed off from the 10th at 8.30am, followed by Laura Davies, Caroline Masson and Vicky Hurst at 8.40am.

Ireland’s top representative, Rebecca Codd, was part of the next group with Beatriz Recari and the 2010 Henderson Money List leader, Lee-Anne Pace, out at 8.50am.

Ten minutes later, 16-year-olds Lexis Thompson from the United States and Leona Maguire from Ireland join the Kraft Nabisco champion Stacy Lewis in another power packed group out at 9am.

For the remainder of this article from the Ladies European Tour (LET) website, please click here.

For live scoring from the LET website, please click here.

The draw for round 1 is available from here.

The draw for round 2 is available from here.

Order of Play for Days 1 and 2

The 2011 Ladies Irish Open supported by Fáilte Ireland is due to start tomorrow, Friday August 5.

The draw for rounds 1 and 2 are available now through the Ladies European Tour website. Click the links below for the drawsheet.

Click here for round 1 order of play.

Click here for round 2 order of play.

2010

First Blood to Europe as Americans lick their wounds.

home ON THE last day they came in their thousands. Maybe it was the sunshine. Maybe it was the glut of Europeans in contention and particularly the Swedes. Maybe it was the large canvas of Killeen Castle. But Sunday in Dunsany enveloped the AIB Ladies Irish Open in warmth and blue skies. Event promoter for next year’s Solheim Cup Roddy Carr felt the three-day total of 35,000 spectators was good reason for optimism for next year’s staging of the battle between Europe and America. Next year, too, the Americans will be coming with bigger names and a more aggressive attitude.

“We’d 35,000 for the week,” said Carr. “Our greatest expectations were 15,000. We started (the Irish Open) with 10,000. We did 15,000 the second year and we said if we did 20,000 this year we’d be delighted.

“We had the best here. Look at the scoring and the way they played. The last four Solheim Cups have had 100,000 people attending. Our target for next year is between 80,000 and 100,000 and I’m now fairly confident the support will be there.

Click here for full story in Irish Times....

You Gust-af seen it coming!

We were greeted with truly beautiful weather this morning for day three of the AIB Ladies Irish Open. With the sunshine staying strong throughout the day and spectators arriving from early morning, the scene was set for an amazing final round to a great tournament.

The golf was impressive from early morning with a terrific round of 64 from Veronica Zorzi, comprising of 10 birdies and 2 bogeys. This left the Italian 5 under for the tournament, tied with Gwladys Nocera, Christina Kim, Maria Hjorth and Pernilla Lindberg. Another remarkable score came from Katherine Hull who also carded a 64 which leaves her in a tie for fifth on 9 under with Anna Nordqvist of Sweden.

In second place were Marianne Skarpnord and In Kyung Kim who shot 3 under and 2 under respectively, to leave then on 11 under, one shot ahead of Melissa Reid who fought back strongly with a round of 66.

Ireland's Rebecca Coakley finished with 3 birdies on the last 3 holes to move up to joint 17th while Lisa Maguire was best of the amateurs with a level par round to put her on 2 over. Daniel McVeigh was one shot behind on 3 over and Maguire sister Leona dropped 4 shots on her back nine and finished on 4 over for the tournament.

"Queen of Killeen" however was Sophie Gustafson. She played some exceptional golf and combined with her wealth of experience carded a 66 after slotting in a 7 foot downhill putt on the last for birdie to finish on 12 under par. This is the fourth Irish title for the Swede and with victories likes this, she hopes to win a place on the Solheim Cup Team and play at Killeen again, next year.

Swedes sweep up birdies on day two at Killeen Castle

As the heavy rainfall of Friday's play was left behind, day two of the AIB Ladies Irish Open started on a dry note and so was reflected in this morning's scores. With superb rounds of 66 from Linda Wessberg and 67 from Anna Nordqvist, the two Swedes propelled themselves up the leader board and are currently tied for second alongside Marianne Skarpnord who shot an amazing 6 under back nine.

As the sun began to shine, fellow Swedes Pernilla Lindberg, Sophie Gustafson and overnight leader Maria Hjorth continued to prosper. Linda who shot a bogey free round of 66 means she is just two off the lead at 7 under while Hjorth and Gustafson share 6th place on 6 under.

However it was Korea's In Kyung Kim who had a birdie on 17 to make her the clubhouse leader after day two. She carded a 66 comprising of eight birdies and two dropped shots.

Leading the Irish is Rebecca Coakley who put together a level par round to leave her on 1 under. The next best of the Irish were our three amateurs, the Maguire twins Leona and Lisa and Daniel McVeigh. Lisa carded a 2 over while Leona shot another level par round and Daniel finished on 1 over.

With these three stars of the future making the cut, Irish eyes are sure to be smiling tonight!

For Day 2 results please click here....

Hjorth sets the pace after the first round of the AIB Ladies Irish Open

As drizzle descended on Killeen Castle Friday August 6th, 126 competitors begun their battle to be crowned "Queen of Killeen" at the AIB Ladies Irish Open 2010. Rain fell intermittently throughout the day however; the scattered showers did not dampen the spirits of Maria Hjorth who shot an impressive round of 5 under par comprising of 1 eagle, 5 birdies and 2 bogeys. She is closely followed by England's Melissa Reid on 4 under. Meanwhile, leading the Irish charge is Rebecca Coakley who rounded a card of 1 under, comprising of 4 birdies and 3 bogeys. As for our Irish amateurs, Leona Maguire shot a solid round of level par having been 4 over with 8 to play. Not to be outdone by her sister, Lisa recovered remarkably from a triple bogey on 6 to also leave her on a score of level par. Daniel McVeigh finished her round on 2 over par proving our Irish amateurs can play at the highest level and compete competitively with their professional counterparts.

With so much golf still to be played, the competition is wide open and one thing is for sure, an exciting weekend lies ahead here in Killeen Castle at the AIB Ladies Irish Open.

For Day 2 timesheet please click here....

For Day 1 results please click here....

Irish Amateurs get the chance to team up with the professionals at the AIB Ladies Irish Open Pro-Am

The opportunity to play with some of the worlds best professional female golfers is unique to golf and the Pro-Am is a much sought after invitation. Today, 156 amateur golfers got the chance to mix it with a myriad of stars from the women's pro golf game at the AIB Ladies Irish Open Pro Am.

Amongst the field of amateur golfers were some of Ireland's well known celebrities. These included the ever entertaining rugby pundit George Hook, former elite jockey Mick Kinane and Olympic medalist John Treacy. Also of note were RTE Sports reporter Greg Allen and former Ireland rugby international player Shane Byrne.

The Pro-Am consisted of two shot-gun multi-tee starts with the first beginning at 7.30am and the second beginning at 1.30pm. All Pro-Am guests will be presented with an exclusive photo with their professional as a memento of their day at the Dundrum Town Centre Pro-Am party held in Dunboyne Castle tonight.

Scoring on the day was lead by Kristy McPherson and her team of Alan Levey, Aiden Williams and Stephen Haplin with an impressive score of 23 under.

Truly a memorable day for both professionals and amateurs alike!

Click here for full results of the AIB Ladies Irish Open Pro-Am...

Not just showing up for Solheim Cup preview

With the AIB Ladies Irish Open commencing on August 6th, Suzann Pettersen speaks to The Irish Times about the upcoming event. "Never mind the Solheim Cup being played at Killeen; I'm playing the Irish Open because it's a great tournament. I always look forward to competing in Ireland and this is one of the best events on our schedule."

Having won the Ladies Irish Open at Portmarnock Links in 2008 Suzann shows how she's ready to give it her all at Killeen. "I always try to bring my A-game and play my heart out."

For full story as it appears in The Irish Times click here...

AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Failte Ireland

One of the strongest fields ever assembled for a professional golf event in Ireland will attract huge crowds to the AIB Ladies Irish Open at Spectacular Killeen Castle in Dunsany, Co. Meath, from August 6th - 8th. It is also a glorious opportunity for spectators to marvel at the venue for The 2011 Solheim Cup. There will be no fewer than seventeen Solheim Cup players in action. The American challenge will be spearheaded by the Charismatic and extrovert Christina Kim, who made a huge impact at the last Solheim Cup in Chicago. Fellow team members Angela Stanford, Brittany Lang, Kristy McPherson and Brittany Lincicome will add firepower to the stateside assault.

For full story as it appears in Leopardstown Golf News click here...

17 Solheim Cup players to compete in AIB Ladies Irish Open at Killeen Castle

The AIB Ladies Irish Open has attracted the strongest field of women professional golfers in its history at Killeen Castle on August 6-8.

The field comprises of five current American Solheim Cup players and the full European team that includes world ranked 3rd, Suzann Pettersen who won the event in 2008, Anna Nordqvist ranked 6th, Laura Davies, current European No. 1, Catriona Mathew MBE, reigning Ricoh British Open Champion, Sophie Gustafson, past multiple winner of the Ladies Irish Open, Maria Hjorth and Helen Alfredsson, the 2007 Solheim Cup Captain.

The USA challenge is lead by the charismatic and extrovert Christina Kim, who made a huge impact at the last Solheim Cup in Chicago. Fellow team members Angela Stanford ranked 9th in the world, Brittany Lang, Kristy McPherson and Brittany Lincicome, winner of the ‘LPGA Major’ The Kraft Nabisco in 2009 will add to the 'across the pond' rivalry at the event.

Team Ireland will be well represented by the in-form Hazel Kavanagh, Rebecca Coakley currently 21th on the Solheim Cup rankings, US based Alison Walsh from Galway, Martina Gillen and Tara Delaney from Carlow.

In addition defending Champion Dianna Luna will return to defend her title just two months after giving birth to her first child Elena. Gwladys Nocera, Tania Elosegui and Becky Brewerton represent the growing influence of youthful talenton the LET tour.

AIB comment: John Rice, General Manager, AIB Bank stated:

“Our support for women’s golf has been very well received with over 2000 women from 140 clubs around the country participating in the AIB Ladies Irish Open Amateur Challenge and will go forward to play in this year’s AIB Pro-Am at the magnificent Killeen Castle. This is proving to be a great build up to The 2011 Solheim Cup of which we are proud Global sponsors.”

Fáilte Ireland: Keith McCormack, Head of Golf & Business Tourism:

“Women’s golf is the fastest growing segment in golf and as a result is has the potential to deliver new business for Ireland and the golf industry. Research shows that golf tourism to Ireland delivers a lot of repeat and referral business, and that 70% of women are the travel decision makers. Our support of the AIB Ladies Irish Open is part of Fáilte Ireland’s new business development strategy , culminating in Ireland’s hosting of The 2011 Solheim Cup, which will be the biggest women’s sporting event ever played in Ireland.”

Ladies European Tour Executive Director; Alexandra Armas:

“This is the third year that AIB and Fáilte Ireland have been title partners of the AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland, and we believe that this year’s event will be an even bigger success than in previous years. The 2010 event has attracted a truly world class, international field and the quality of the competitors clearly demonstrates their excitement and eagerness to play at Killeen Castle, The 2011 Solheim Cup venue.”

Twenty Eleven, Event Promoters; Roddy Carr commented:

‘There is one formula that works for golf events in Ireland, bring the best players in the world and the people will come to see them. This is what we set out to do at this year’s event with the move to the splendid Jack Nicklaus designed course at Killeen Castle. We were thrilled with the response from quality Americans, who obviously see the event as a curtain raiser for The 2011 Solheim Cup.”

Ladies European Tour members Annika Sorenstam and Joanne Morley have been selected as vice-captains for The 2011 European Solheim Cup Team by Captain Alison Nicholas.

Sorenstam, the event’s all time leading points scorer with 24, played in eight straight Solheim Cup competitions from 1994-2007. The former world number one won 89 tournaments around the globe before stepping away from competitive play at the end of 2008 to focus on business interests and start a family.

Morley, who was a vice-captain to Nicholas at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Illinois, in 2009, competed in The 1996 Solheim Cup and is a two-time Ladies European Tour winner.

“I am thrilled, humbled and honoured that Joanne and Annika have accepted my invitation to be my vice-captains for The 2011 Solheim Cup matches at Killeen Castle in Ireland,” said Nicholas. “I am looking forward to working with them both over the next 15 to 16 months. Their combined Solheim Cup experience will be invaluable. Joanne’s expertise working behind the scenes in two previous Solheim Cups and Annika’s wealth of experience as the most successful female golfer of all time provides a strong, inspirational, passionate and unified team which will guide the European players to success in bringing The Cup back to Europe.

Full story click here...

Inkster, Steinhauer named U.S. Solheim Cup Assistant Captains
Jones chooses current LPGA players to help lead U.S. team

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., May 11, 2010 – LPGA players Juli Inkster and Sherri Steinhauer have been selected as assistant captains for the 2011 U.S. Solheim Cup Team by Captain Rosie Jones. Inkster, a 31-time LPGA Tour winner and member of the LPGA and World Golf Halls of Fame, has competed in eight Solheim Cup competitions, while 8-time LPGA Tour winner Steinhauer has competed in four. The 2011 Solheim Cup will be played at Killeen Castle in County Meath, Ireland from Sept. 23-25.

Jones made the announcement today at the Bell Micro LPGA Classic in Mobile, Alabama, where both Inkster and Steinhauer will compete this week.

“Part of my job as Captain of the 2011 Solheim Cup Team is to build and surround myself with the strongest team to pursue a win in Ireland,” Jones said. “By picking Juli Inkster and Sherri Steinhauer, I am confident that I have selected the best possible assistant captains to help get that job done. Juli, Sherri and I have been long-time friends and competitors on the LPGA as well as teammates on several Solheim Cups played over a 20-year period. Our trio of leadership of the U.S. Solheim Cup Team will include the same passion, dedication and competitiveness that we displayed as players. It will be our job to share that wealth of experience with our 2011 U.S. players while leading them to victory.”

The 2011 Solheim Cup will be the 12th staging of the biennial, trans-Atlantic team match-play competition featuring the best 12 U.S.-born players from the LPGA and the best 12 European-born players representing the Ladies European Tour (LET). The U.S. leads the series 8-3, but faces a challenge in Ireland, however, as the European Team has won all of its three Solheim Cup events on European soil.

In her days as a member of the U.S. squad, Inkster recorded 18 points over eight Solheim Cups, including an overall singles record of 6-1-1. Her most recent appearance came at the 2009 competition played at the Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Illinois, where her U.S. team beat the Europeans by four points. Inkster’s 18 points are the most ever won by a U.S. Solheim player and rank second in Solheim Cup history behind Europe’s Laura Davies, who has won 23 ½.

”I am honored that Rosie has such faith in me to choose me to be an assistant captain,” said Inkster. “I look forward to helping her and Sherri lead the U.S. team in Ireland. The Solheim Cup has been such a big part of my LPGA career for so many years and this will be a continuation of those great memories.”

Steinhauer has registered eight points over four Solheim Cups, with an overall record of 6-3-4. Her last Solheim Cup appearance came at the 2007 Solheim Cup played at Halmstad Golf Club in Halmstad, Sweden, where the U.S. team won by four points over Europe, marking only the second time in Solheim Cup history that a team has won on foreign soil. The U.S. team accomplished the same feat at the 1996 Solheim Cup in Wales.

“I am thrilled and honored to be selected by Rosie as assistant captain along with Juli Inkster for the 2011 Solheim Cup,” Steinhauer said. “As Solheim Cup players, Rosie and Juli have represented our county with pride, grace and grit. I cannot think of two better people to work alongside. While I can still play my way onto the team, I am excited that I will be in the U.S. team room no matter what. Either way, being a part of Rosie and Juli's team will no doubt bring excitement to Killeen Castle in Ireland.”

The most recent Solheim Cup last season drew fans from across the globe to watch a talented Team USA win at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Illinois last August. The U.S. Team kept its undefeated record on home soil alive in front of a record crowd of 120,000. The winning point came in the 11th singles match on the final day when Morgan Pressel defeated Sweden’s Anna Nordqvist to retain the Cup. Record web, attendance and merchandise sales were recorded throughout the week as spectators poured through the gates and fans logged onto LPGA.com to track their favorite players. Providing real-time coverage of the event throughout the week, LPGA.com had nearly 6.9 million page views to the site.

In their careers on the LPGA Tour, Steinhauer and Inkster combine for a total of 39 wins and nine major championships. Inkster’s last win came at the 2006 Safeway International Presented by Coca-Cola, while Steinhauer’s latest victory was carded at the 2007 LPGA State Farm Classic. Both full-time active players, Inkster and Steinhauer will bring a wealth of knowledge, spirit and leadership to the U.S. Team and provide Captain Jones an inside the ropes perspective on prospective teammates.

Highlights of Juli Inkster’s Career/Solheim Cup Career

Rookie Year: 1983
Wins (last): 31 (2006)
Career low round: 62
Career earnings(rank): $12,779,800(4)
Solheim Cups: ’92,’98, ’00, ’02, ’03, ’05, ’07, ‘09
Overall singles record – 6-1-1
Overall foursomes record – 6-4-3
Overall four-ball record – 3-5-2
Overall doubles record – 9-9-5
Overall record – 15-10-6
Total points scored – 18

Highlights of Sherri Steinhauer’s Career/Solheim Cup Career

Rookie Year: 1986
Wins(last): 8 (2007)
Career low round: 64
Career earnings(rank): $5,947,438(20)
Solheim Cups: ’94, ’98, ’00, ‘07
Overall singles record – 2-0-2
Overall foursomes record – 3-0-2
Overall four-ball record – 1-3-0
Overall doubles record – 4-3-2
Overall record – 6-3-4
Total points scored – 8

About The Solheim Cup
The Solheim Cup is named in honor of Karsten Solheim, and his family, the makers of PING golf equipment. The Solheim Cup is the most prestigious international team event in women’s professional golf. It is a biennial, trans-Atlantic team match-play competition featuring the best U.S.-born players from the LPGA and the best European-born players representing the Ladies European Tour (LET). The U.S. Team leads the competition, 8-3. The 2011 Solheim Cup will be played at Killeen Castle in County Meath, Ireland, Sept. 23-25. The 2013 Solheim Cup will be contested at Colorado Golf Club in Parker, Colorado. In addition to founding sponsor PING, Global Partners of The Solheim Cup include AIB Group and Rolex. For information, log on to www.SolheimCup.com.

About the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association)
The LPGA is the world’s leading professional golf organization for women. Founded in 1950, the association celebrates a diverse and storied membership with more than 1,700 members representing 29 different countries. With a Vision to inspire, empower, educate and entertain by showcasing the very best of women’s golf, LPGA Tour Professionals compete across the globe, while dedicated LPGA Teaching and Club Professionals (T&CP) directly impact the game through teaching, coaching and management. The Duramed FUTURES Tour serves as the official developmental tour of the LPGA, consistently producing a pipeline of talent ready for the world stage. The LPGA is headquartered in Daytona Beach, Florida. Follow the LPGA on its television home, Golf Channel, and on the web via: www.LPGA.com, www.facebook.com/lpga.official, www.twitter.com/lpga, and www.youtube.com/lpgavideo.

Volkswagen announces ‘Official Car’ sponsorship of The Solheim Cup & AIB Ladies Irish Open

Europe’s Solheim Cup Captain Alison Nicholas today paid her first site-visit to Killeen Castle which is gearing up to host The 2011 Solheim Cup, one of the biggest events in ladies professional golf. The captain’s appearance marked the announcement of Volkswagen’s partnership with the tournament in Ireland. Along with becoming ‘Official Car’ of The Solheim Cup in September next year, Volkswagen will support this year’s AIB Ladies Irish Open, also being staged at the stunning Jack Nicklaus Signature Championship Course at Killeen Castle in County Meath.

Nicholas’ site visit is seen as a key step in Europe’s quest to overcome the American’s next year and retrieve the famous Solheim Cup, which the USA won 16-12 in Illinois last year. Ladies golf is the fastest growing segment in golf worldwide and with the standard of the game higher than ever it is receiving more attention throughout the world and especially in Ireland with the 15 year old Maguire Twins being named on the Curtis Cup team later this year. The partnership with Volkswagen is testament to the continued popularity and integrity of the game.

Volkswagen’s support will tee off at this year’s AIB Ladies Irish Open, taking place from the 6th to the 8th of August at Killeen Castle. It will give the Irish public a taste of what is ahead with many of the world’s top female golfers from both sides of the Atlantic already committed to play in order to sample the challenging course at Killeen Castle.

Commenting on the partnership, Adam Chamberlain, Head of Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen said: “Volkswagen is delighted to support ladies golf and to be involved in such a prestigious global event. We are greatly looking forward to seeing some of the world’s best golfers on Irish soil and to support both tournaments in a number of innovative ways. Volkswagen’s involvement in sport has grown significantly and we are proud to add ladies golf to our current involvement in rugby and hurling through our sponsorships and ambassadors.”

Roddy Carr, Director, The 2011 Solheim Cup, added, “Volkswagen is an international brand name in itself with a strong female fan base. We are delighted that VW Ireland is supporting The 2011 Solheim Cup at Killeen Castle which will deliver the greatest women golfers in the world, competing for the most prestigious international prize in women's golf.”

Killeen Castle welcome IRUPA

Killeen Castle, host venue for the 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open in August and The 2011 Solheim Cup in September next year have joined forces with the Irish Rugby Union Players Association (IRUPA). The partnership will allow the countries top professional rugby players access to the spectacular facilities at the Co. Meath venue. The players have welcomed the partnership as many of them are single figure golfers and are relishing the opportunity to try and fine tune their touch around the greens of Killeen Castle. Paul O'Connell and Brian O'Driscoll are the more competitive two of the single figure bunch or ruggers.

BOOM time for Ladies Golf

Tournament Organiser Roddy Carr talks to Leopardstown Golf News about the revival of the AIB Ladies Irish Open, setting the scene for this years AIB Ladies Irish Open and The 2011 Solheim Cup, both to be held at the spectacular Killeen Castle Golf Club, Co. Meath.

Describe how the AIB Ladies Irish Open has developed in recent years. RC - The revival of the AIB Ladies Irish Open came about as a result of Ireland winning the rights to stage The 2011 Solheim Cup at Killeen Castle. It was a condition of the bid to host five Ladies Irish Opens and we and AIB felt it was the ideal vehicle to re-launch the staid image of women’s professional golf inIreland. We decided to go back to the simple and successful model of the original men’s Irish Open and bring in the best female players in the world and make tickets freely available. The model worked very well for us, we had 10,000 spectators the first year and 15,000 in 2009. In such challenging times AIB Bank's commitment to the Ladies Irish Open and 2011 Solheim Cup is vital.

For full story click here...

Perfect Partners

Worldwide golf and turf equipment manufacturer John Deere and the Ladies European Tour (LET) extended their original patron agreement at the end of 2009 for two more years, during which Deere will be designated the Tour’s official supplier of golf course machinery.

The company will also be an official industry partner of The 2011 Solheim Cup match between the women’s professional teams from the US and Europe (captained for the second time in succession by Alison Nicholas), which will take place at Killeen Castle in Ireland; this new partnership agreement also covers the newly established AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland, in 2010, 2011 & 2012, and The 2011 PING Junior Solheim Cup.

Through the Ladies European Tour agreement, LET tournaments will be supported by John Deere equipment and irrigation products through the company’s European golf dealer network. Deere officials will also continue to work closely with the LET’s agronomists, with the goal of helping to produce better quality playing surfaces.

“The Ladies European Tour is pleased to extend its relationship with John Deere, which has been an excellent partner,” said Mark Casey , director of operations for the LET and director of The Solheim Cup. “We know the enduring strength of the John Deere brand is based on the quality of its products and customer service, and the Ladies European Tour and The Solheim Cup are proud to be associated with it.”

Jon Chase, Deere & Company’s director of sales and marketing for turf products in Europe, added: “We are very pleased to have added The 2011 Solheim Cup, AIB Ladies Irish Open and The 2011 PING Junior Solheim Cup to what has already been a fruitful relationship with the Ladies European Tour. John Deere is also very proud of its longstanding relationship with the US PGA Tour, and is confident its relationship with the LET will continue to grow.”

Alison Nicholas is pictured with The Solheim Cup trophy at the BTME 2010 trade exhibition at Harrogate, where the new partnership announcement was made today (Tuesday 19th July). “As the Ladies European Tour schedule expands, it’s great to have such a good partner in John Deere supporting our efforts to grow the women’s game,” said Alison. “I’m also very excited by the challenge of captaining the European team again at The Solheim Cup at the wonderful Killeen Castle course in 2011. I’m very confident in my team and our ability to regain the trophy next year.”

Watch out for Walshe

Galway born Alison Walshe could be Europe’s secret weapon in the 2011 Solheim Cup at Killeen Castle.

The Boston based star, 25, won six points out of six for the Americans in last year’s Curtis Cup rout of Mary McKenna’s Great Britain and Ireland side.

But she’s not eligible for the US Solheim Cup squad because she was born in Galway and lived in Tuam until she was five. And that means she can tee it up for Europe as she has an Irish passport and earned her Ladies European Tour card this week.

Click here for full story...

2009

AIB Ladies Irish Open Club Challenge 2010

The 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland, will take place on 6th - 8th August at Killeen Castle in Co. Meath on the Jack Nicklaus Signature designed course, that will also host The 2011 Solheim Cup.

It is anticipated that the move to August in the week immediately following the Ricoh Women’s British Open, will attract some of the biggest names in ladies golf, not only on the Ladies European Tour but also on an international level as it is presently a free week on the LPGA calendar.

You have the chance to attend the AIB Ladies Irish Open and to play in the Pro-Am by competing in the AIB Ladies Irish Open Club Challenge next May/June. Just form a team of 3 with your friends from your club and register it by Friday 30th April on www.aibladiesirishopen.ie. Qualification for the competition will take place through any sanctioned 18-hole singles competition in your club taking place from April 1st to May 12th 2010. The top 120 teams nationwide will go forward to play in the following AIB Ladies Irish Open Club Challenge Regional Finals:

Thursday 27th May - Galway Golf Club
Tuesday 1st June - Dun Laoghaire Golf Club
Tuesday 8th June - Cork Golf Club
Friday 11th June - Slieve Russell Golf Club

The winning teams from each Provincial Final will then qualify to play in the AIB Ladies Irish Open Pro-Am on Thursday 5th August 2010 at Killeen Castle, Dunsany, Co. Meath.

In the New Year we will forward you a Registration Information Pack, giving you details on how and when to enter your teams. All Ladies Honorary Secretaries who enter a team from their club will be entered into a draw for a voucher for a Health Spa. In the meantime we would ask you to please bear in mind the AIB Ladies Irish Open Club Challenge when planning your calendar for 2010.

LET Unveils 2010 Calendar to feature 27 tournaments with four new stops.

ENGLAND, 14th Dec 2009 – Executive Director of the Ladies European Tour (LET), Alexandra Armas, today announced the tournament schedule for the 2010 season.

There are 27 events in 20 different countries, including four new stops in New Zealand, Morocco, Slovakia and China. Two additional events, in Turkey and Scotland, will return to the schedule after a one year absence.

This surpasses the 2009 season when there were 23 tournaments in 18 countries across the world.

The season will start with the inaugural Pegasus New Zealand Women’s Open hosted by Christchurch at Pegasus Golf Club from February 25-28.

The next new event is the Princess Lalla Meryem Cup at Royal Golf Anfa Mohammedia from March 18-20, which will take place during the same week as the Hassan II Trophy on the men’s European Tour.

From May 27-30, the LET will make an historic first visit to Slovakia with the Ladies Slovak Open at Gray Bear Golf Club. There will also be a second event in China, during the week before the popular Suzhou Taihu Ladies Open. The Anji King Valley Ladies Open will be played at Anji King Valley Golf Club from October 21-24.

After a one year hiatus, the LET returns to National Golf Club in Antalya for the Turkish Ladies Open from May 6-9 and to Scotland for the Ladies Scottish Open, at Archerfield Links in East Lothian, from August 18-20. The Finnair Masters will take place for the sixth straight year at Helsinki Golf Club in Tali, Finland, from August 27-29.

Additionally, there will be several new tournament venues. The Women’s Australian Open moves to Commonwealth Golf Club in Melbourne, the ABN AMRO Ladies Open moves to Golfclub Broekpolder in Rotterdam, the Netherlands and the Tenerife Ladies Open returns to Buenavista Golf.

The Ricoh Women’s British Open returns to Royal Birkdale in England, with the AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Failte Ireland, taking place at Killeen Castle in County Meath the following week. The tournament will provide the only opportunity for players from both sides of the Atlantic to test their skills on The 2011 Solheim Cup venue in a competitive environment and expects to draw a quality field of international competitors from all over the world.

Armas said: “We are extremely pleased with next year’s schedule following on from a spectacular 2009 season.

“Despite the tough financial climate, there has been massive interest in hosting a Ladies European Tour event. The players’ efforts have helped to make every tournament a great experience and have given value to all stakeholders. The schedule reflects the continued growing interest in women’s golf.

“There are still some details to be confirmed, such as venues and prize money, but these will be announced in the coming months and we will be playing at quality golf courses. We also anticipate that total prize money will be at least equal to, if not greater, than in 2009.

“I would like to thank all of our partners for their continued commitment to the Ladies European Tour and its players. We look forward to working with all involved to ensure the tour’s continued success in 2010 and beyond.”

Roddy Carr, speaks about the staging of The 2011 Solheim Cup.

Roddy Carr, promoter of The 2011 Solheim Cup and the AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Failte Ireland chats to Con Murphy and Jacqui Hurley from RTE Radio about the staging of The 2011 Solheim Cup and the 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Failte Ireland in Killeen Castle Co. Meath.

To listen to this clip please copy and paste the link below into your web browser.

www.rte.ie/podcasts/2009/pc/pod-v-061209-12m11s-solheim.mp3
Killeen Castle to hose 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Failte Ireland
The 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland, will take place on 6th- 8th August at Killeen Castle on the Jack Nicklaus Signature designed course, that will also host The 2011 Solheim Cup.

It is anticipated that the move to August in the week immediately following the Ricoh Women’s British Open, will attract some of the biggest names in ladies golf, not only on the Ladies European Tour but also on an international level as it is presently a free week on the LPGA calendar.

In addition to one of the biggest purses in Europe of €500,000 on offer, it will also provide Solheim Cup contenders from both teams the unique opportunity to play the highly acclaimed Jack Nicklaus Signature course competitively a year before The 2011 Solheim Cup. It is unlikely that the event will be played at Killeen Castle in 2011 on the same dates due to the proximity of the Matches, scheduled for September 23-25, 2011.
Quote from AIB

"We are delighted that the 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open will be played at the magnificent Killeen Castle in Co. Meath. This is an important part of the build up to 2011 when The Solheim Cup, the largest women's golf team event in the world, comes to Ireland. It will also be hosted at Killeen Castle, which we expect will have a very positive economic impact on the surrounding communities, in both the short term and long term. This is very much in accord with our sponsorship focus on local communities and we have no doubt that the people of County Meath will get fully behind the tournament in preparation for the major event in 2011" said Billy Andrews, General Manager, AIB .

Quote from FI

“Fáilte Ireland is delighted to be supporting the 2010 AIB Ladies Irish Open which will present a great opportunity to showcase our golfing product on a world stage and will, once again, place Ireland in the international spotlight. It also takes us another step closer to hosting The 2011 Solheim Cup, where we will promote Irish golf tourism to a new global audience.

“Golf is one of Ireland’s greatest tourist attractions, contributing an estimated €160 million to the economy. Importantly, when golfers come to Ireland, many also take part in other activities, which provides the opportunity to promote Ireland, not only as a golfing destination but also as a holiday destination of choice. We were overwhelmed by the response in the USA from the 120,000 spectators who attended The 2009 Solheim Cup in Chicago, many of whom expressed interest in visiting Ireland for the event in 2011” said Keith McCormack, Head of Golf & Sports Tourism at Fáilte Ireland.

Quote from Killeen Castle

“We are very proud to be hosting our first big International tournament; the AIB Ladies Irish Open in 2010 just two years after the course is open. It will be a perfect curtain raiser for The Solheim Cup in 2011. Killeen Castle and its members will welcome with open arms the best lady players in the world over the next two years for the AIB Ladies Irish Open and The 2011 Solheim Cup,” said Barry O’Connor, General Manager of Killeen Castle.
“The Signature course which represents the latest in the Nicklaus design philosophy is one of the finest stadium venues anywhere in the world. The 600 acre estate has the added attraction of having a Dave Pelz Short Game School on site, fishing lakes and the magnificent 800 year old Killeen Castle as a backdrop to many fine holes on the course”.

About the AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland
The AIB Ladies Irish Open has quickly become a favourite of the players on the Ladies European Tour, attracting some of the best players in the world including; Sophie Gustafson, Suzann Petersen, winner in 2008, Morgan Pressel, Maria Hjorth and Laura Davies. In 2009 Italy’s Diana Luna claimed the title which took place at the Bernhard Langer designed Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links for the second successive year following the successful re-birth of the championship on the Ladies European Tour schedule.
Rebecca Coakley in fine form in Asia

Rebecca Coakley's fine form in Asia will see her rise significantly in Ladies European Tour Order of Merit.

The 28-year-old from Carlow was extremely impressive in China and South Korea, recording season best ties for fifth place at both the Suzhou Taihu Ladies Open and the Daishin Securities Korean Ladies Masters.

Even more impressive was the fact that she overcame a severe blow to the head at the start of the two week stretch, when she was hit by an amateur player who she was teaching at a clinic on the driving range.

The amateur player, who was due to compete in the pro am, accidentally swiped Rebecca hard in the head with his driver on his back swing whilst standing in the next bay. She was taken to hospital for an MR scan but luckily was healthy enough to play in the tournament.

'Maybe getting smacked in the head last week might have snapped something in me,' she joked, adding that her hard work of recent years is finally coming together.

'It's the same stuff, apart from the result,' she said. 'I've been doing the same things with my coaches and now it's starting to show. There is no particular thing.'

Her main goal for the next two seasons is to qualify for The 2011 Solheim Cup which will be played at Killeen Castle, one and a half hours from her home and where she practises frequently.

The 2011 Solheim Cup qualification system is currently under review and will be published shortly. Coakley may just receive a pleasant surprise when she sees that list.

Michelle Wie Lights up the world of Women's Professional Golf
The season of giving is still six weeks away, but the LPGA Tour received an early Christmas present this weekend when Michelle Wie won her first tour event in dramatic and pressure-packed fashion.
Her 3-under par 69 was good enough to capture the Lorena Ochoa Invitational in Mexico by two strokes over Paula Creamer.
She did it in a style that we first saw on the big stage six years ago – strong and fearless. Holding a one-shot lead entering the par 5 18th, she passed on the safe play, firing for the long, narrow green in two, with disaster all around. The approach felt short into the greenside bunker, and suddenly fears of another Wie collapse sprung to mind.
But the six-footer masterfully struck the long sand shot to within a foot of the pin, and when the tap-in was holed, a huge celebration broke out on the green. Solheim Cup teammates Creamer and Morgan Pressel showered Wie, whose smile could have lit up Times Square. Or at least the LPGA headquarters in Daytona Beach.
LPGA Tour officials were probably as happy with Wie’s win as she was. The economic downturn, turmoil in the commissioner’s office and the absence of an American player atop the leader board have combined to place the tour in a precarious position. The Wie victory at least gives the LPGA something positive to promote for 2010.
For Wie, six years of frustration has come to a close. At the age of 14 she was long enough off the tee and sharp enough around the green to play PGA Tour events with special invitations. And she came close to making a cut.
When she officially turned pro at the age of 16, the golf world looked to her to grab the women’s golf banner, climb to the top of the mountain and stand tall there for years to come as the face of the LPGA Tour.
But under the weight of expectation the magic suddenly disappeared, giving way to an agonizing slump.
Now Wei, who is still a student at Stanford, can relax and enjoy a moment that was long, long overdue.
And so can the LPGA Tour.

LUNA CROWNED LADY OF THE LINKS

Italy’s Diana Luna hit 18 greens en route to a stunning final round of 68 and claimed her first tour win in five years at the AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Failte Ireland.

The 26-year-old from Rome gave a master class in links golf on a testing day near Dublin to claim the first prize of €75,000 and the Tipperary Crystal trophy.

She battled through two lengthy fog delays to post four birdies over Portmarnock Links. She carded three birdies going out, on the sixth, seventh and ninth holes for an outward total of 33 before heading back in 35 after a final birdie at the par-five 13th. --------

Having started the day with a one shot lead, she finished four clear of three players with a winning three-round total of 11-under-par and victory never looked in doubt.

Full Story...

Cut Day at the AIB Ladies Irish Open

Second round play is underway in fine weather at the AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Fáilte Ireland. Sweden’s Maria Hjorth and France’s Julie Greciet began the day at five-under. Greciet managed a level par 72 today to remain in the hunt while Hjorth is still out on the course.

Spain’s Paula Marti (pictured) has carded five birdies over 12 holes to take a one shot lead on seven-under.

Solheim Cup star Becky Brewerton of Wales got off to a flying start to the second round with two birdies in her first four holes and was on a six under par total at the turn but dropped back to five-under.

Italian Diana Luna, who birdied the fourth and sixth, was six-under at the turn.

Saturday is cut day at Portmarnock Links and the field will be reduced to the leading 60 professionals plus amateurs and ties heading into the final day. Please see live scoring for the latest scores.

GALWAY BAY CROWNED PRO-AM CHAMPIONS AFTER AIB CLUB CHALLENGE SUCCESS

The Galway Bay team of Mary Kelly, Helen O'Flaherty and Orla Sheilds pictured right accepting their prizes from Billy Andrews of AIB continued their run of good form by winning the AIB Ladies Irish Open Pro Am on Thursday 25th June in Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links. The Galway Girls qualified to play in the pro am through the nationwide AIB Club Challenge which ran throughout the country for all Irish Lady Golfers with the top 12 teams in the country qualifying for a spot in the prestigious pro am. Congratulations ladies.

DAVIES AWARDED HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSHIP OF THE LINKS GOLF SOCIETY FOR LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT

Laura Davies was made an Honorary Member of The Links Golf Society at the AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Fáilte Ireland.
The English star was awarded the first female honorary membership, in recognition of a lifetime of achievement in women’s golf.
Davies’ was the 10th name to be added to the specially designed Tipperary Crystal Trophy, joining Jack Nicklaus, Padraig Harrington, Des Smyth, Christy O’Connor Snr, Doug Saunders, Dr. Michael Smurfit, J.P. McManus, Chris De Burgh and Bing Crosby.
Cecil Whelan, Honorary Secretary of The Links Golf Society, said: “We are delighted to present Laura with Honorary Membership in recognition of her incredible achievements over her 24-year career in women’s golf.”
Roddy Carr, Tournament Promoter for the AIB Ladies Irish Open, said: "Laura Davies was the first famous woman golf professional to come to Ireland to play an exhibition for free back in the eighties to promote women’s golf. She helped pioneer the development of women's golf in Europe and has been a great ambassador for golf around the world. She fully deserves this award."
The Links Golf Society was founded in 1966 by Cecil Whelan after a competition with 29 golfers at the famous Baltray Links Golf Course in County Louth, Ireland.
The Primary objective of The Links Golf society is fund raising for various charities through golf. In the past 11 years the society has raised over €10 million for various charities, primarily youth charities. The links also runs a Winter League for Professional and good amateur golfers. This gives aspiring young golfers the opportunity to play with their peers and also help to improve their game.

Davies and Gustafson vie for Irish honours

This year’s event is an exciting prospect for all golf enthusiasts as with The Solheim Cup just two months away, Europe’s finest will be out to impress at what is now the fourth most prestigious event on the LET.

Golfing Legend Laura Davies will be on a mission to equal Sophie Gustafson’s record of three Ladies Irish Open titles and claim the top prize of €75,000.

Davies won the eventin 1994 and 1995 at St Margaret’s. Gustafson won the 1998 Donegal Irish Ladies Open at Ballyliffin, followed by the 2000 event at Faithlegg and the 2003 instalment at Killarney Golf and Fishing Club (Mahoney’s Point).

MAGUIRE TWINS JOIN EUROPE'S TOP FORTY IN AIB LADIES IRISH OPEN supported by FAILTE IRELAND

Talented twins Lisa and Leona Maguire along with Danielle McVeigh from Royal County Down will be playing in the AIB Ladies Irish Open at Portmarnock Links this week from June 26-28th, as part of their preparation for the Vagliano Team which take on the Continent of Europe Team in July. The trio, along with eight other amateurs, will join the historic field which includes all top 40 players on the Ladies European Tour, lead by Laura Davies and Sophie Gustafson.

The 11 amateurs, which also include Stephanie Meadow, the 17 year old rising amateur star from Antrim who now resides in the USA, will compete for the inaugural Philomena Garvey Trophy for the leading Amateur in the AIB Ladies Irish Open supported by Fáilte Ireland. The Tipperary Crystal Trophy has been introduced by the ILGU to celebrate the achievement of Ireland’s first legendary amateur, who passed away last month.

Roddy Carr, Tournament Promoter commented; “We are absolutely delighted to have the best amateur players in the UK & Ireland and especially the four best Irish players competing against the top professionals. They are all so young and the experience they gain will help them enormously and enhance their chances of getting on the Junior Solheim Cup team in Chicago in August. It will also inspire more young girls to take up the game”.

ALL TOP FORTY PLAYERS ON LADIES EUROPEN TOUR ENTERED FOR THE AIB LADIES IRISH OPEN supported by FAILTE IRELAND

The top 40 players on the Ladies European Tour have all confirmed their participation in this year’s AIB Ladies Irish Open which takes place at The Portmarnock Golf Links from 26th-28th June. The top 40 professionals players lead by Laura Davies and Sophie Gustafson will be joined by the top nine amateur players selected to play for the Vagliano Team against the Continent of Europe in July.

The Team, captained by Mary McKenna will be announced next Monday, June 15th following the British Ladies Amateur Championship at The Royal St. David’s Golf Club in Wales. There is great anticipation from an Irish point of view in the expectation of the famous Maguire Twins and Danielle McVeigh from Royal County Down will make the team based on their recent good form.

“It is a very rare occurrence”, according to Yvonne Cassidy, Tournament Director of the AIB Ladies Irish Open for the Ladies European Tour, for every one of Europe’s top 40 ranked professionals to enter for a tournament. This demonstrates the success of the event in 2008 on the Portmarnock Links club and clearly establishing it is as one of the premier events on the Ladies European Tour.

Maria Hjorth: Golf Pro and Mom

Professional golfer Maria Hjorth is back on the LPGA circuit after having her first baby. Hjorth, who originally hails from Sweden, is ranked No. 34 on the tour and has earned more than $4 million since the start of her pro career in 1998.
She plays tournaments around the world, which means plenty of time on planes and in hotels and the need to balance life on the professional golf tour with raising her daughter.

So far she’s taken her family with her on tour when she can. Husband Shaun McBride and daughter Emily accompanied her to Mexico for her first tournament following Emily’s birth. He handled nighttime feedings so she could get the sleep she needed to play.

Read more...

Volunteer at the AIB Ladies Irish Open for a chance to be involved in The 2011 Solheim Cup in Killeen Castle, Co. Meath.

There are still places available to marshal the AIB Ladies Irish Open in Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links from June 26-28. In the build up the the staging of the biggest female sporting event ever to grace the shores of Ireland we are offering all volunteers of the AIB Ladies Irish Open first refusal when recruiting volunteers for The 2011 Solheim Cup. For a chance to avail of the fantastic benefits received by Marshals at this years tournament please follow the link below. We are very much looking forward to having you on board this year and on 'The Road to the 2011 Solheim Cup'.

For Volunteer opportunities click here...

AIB Ladies Irish Open Launches Marie Keating Foundation's sun exposure awareness campaign.

Sun Seekers are being urged to cover up this season to avoid long term damage. A campaign to raise awareness about the risks posed by too much sun exposure was kicked off yesterday by the Marie Keating Foundation with the help of the AIB Ladies Irish Open.

RTE presenter Miriam O'Callaghan was on hand to lend her support, and said the issue was one close to her heart. ''Because of my colouring, i've always been aware of how important it is to take care of my skin in the sun,'' she said. One thousand yellow balloons were released over Dublin City to mark the launch of the campaign, called 'Be Aware, Don't Leave your Skin Bare.'

The AIB Ladies Irish Open will be donating all revenue from ticket sales to the Marie Keating Foundation.

Great Britain and Ireland’s Top Amateurs to Play in AIB Ladies Irish Open

Unique Co-Operation Leads to Top Amateurs Playing alongside Star Professionals in the AIB Ladies Irish Open at Portmarnock Links in June.
Twenty Eleven, the Promoters of the AIB Ladies Irish Open and The 2011 Solheim Cup at Killeen Castle, in association with the Ladies European Tour and the Ladies Golf Union have completed a unique arrangement that will enable the top nine Amateur golfers from Great Britain and Ireland to play in the 2009 AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland at Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links from 26th - 28th June, 2009.
All nine members of the team selected for the Vagliano Trophy on June 15th 2009 will be invited to play in the AIB Ladies Irish Open as part of the team’s preparation for the matches against the Continent of Europe in July, under the watchful eye and guidance of Team Captain, Mary McKenna.

More info...

Irish Times offer free tickets for the AIB Ladies Irish Open

The first 1000 people to register for tickets through the AIB Ladies Irish Open website will recieve their order free of charge when using the promotional code 'IT'. To avail of this offer simply register on the left hand side of the screen and follow the instructions. Don't miss out on this fantastic offer and come join us on the Links.

Golfing Legend Laura Davies to play AIB Ladies Irish Open

One of golf’s greatest ever players, Laura Davies, will return to the Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links on June 26th - 28th, 2009 for the AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland.

Davies, who recently won the Australian Women’s Open in January and currently leads the 2009 LET money list, will be attempting to be the first lady professional to win the Ladies Irish Open for a third time following her wins in ’94 & ’95.

More info...

GUI & ILGU Members receive 50% discount on tickets for AIB Ladies Irish Open.

All holders of GUI Membership cards will receive a 50% discount on all tickets when they produce their card at the gate. Alternatively tickets can be pre-booked through the website www.aibladiesirishopen.ie and collected at the ‘will-call’ desk at the tournament. Don’t miss out on this fantastic offer. Come and see these ladies on the links.

More info...

Mercedes-Benz Boost for AIB Ladies Irish Open

Mercedes-Benz are providing sponsorship for the AIB Ladies Irish Open at the Portmarncok Hotel & Golf Links from 26th - 28th June.

Their support takes the form of providing courtesy cars and VIP transport for use by players and officials.

Mercedes-Benz will issue complimentary entry tickets to the first 200 lady golfers who log on to the Mercedes-Benz website.

News 2008

2008

Date and Venue Announced for 2009
The Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links: 26th - 28th June 2009

Big-time Ladies professional golf will return to North Dublin next year with the formal announcement that the staging of the AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland, will again be held at the magnificent Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links from Friday June 26th until Sunday 28th 2009.

AIB Ladies Irish Open, supported by Failte Ireland stays with winning formula - "World Class Players on a Championship Links Venue with increased prize money for 2009".

Irish earn Ladies European Tour Cards

Pettersen Peaks at First AIB Ladies Irish Open

Suzann Pettersen became the first winner of the AIB Ladies Irish Open. Finishing with a birdie on the 18th to win by 5 shots. Click news for full story.

Scandinavian Superstars

As play concludes in the second round of the AIB Ladies Irish Open scandinavians dominate. Click on news for full story..

Saturday 12th Draw sheet

For second round tee time and order of play click on news.

Piovano Leads on 5 under in AIB Ladies Irish Open

A run of birdie, eagle, par, birdie from the 12th hole on the Bernhard Langer designed Portmarnock Links in Dublin gave the 26-year-old from Rome an opening round of five-under-par... Click on link below for first round results.

http://www.ladieseuropeantour.info/tic/tmlsmon.cgi?tourn=AUTO

Parking Facilities and Spectator Information

Seven Teams Qualify for AIB Ladies Irish Open Pro AM in Portmarnock Links

AIB have started their regional qualifiers for their AIB Amateur Challenge . To find out results click on News or Read more

AIB Ladies Irish Open attracts world's leading players to Ireland this summer

The most important women’s event in Irish golf takes place this July with the rebirth of the AIB Irish Ladies Open, supported by Fáilte Ireland and Killeen Castle, to the sporting calendar.. Read press release

Aib Ladies Irish Open Press Release - 4th June 2008

World Class Players on a Championship Links Venue with increased prize money for 2009

AIB Ladies Irish Open 'A five-star fare'

Pettersen peaks at Portmarnock

Draw for Second Round-Saturday 12th July

12 Teams Qualify for AIB Ladies Irish Open Pro AM in Portmarnock Links

Aib Ladies Irish Open Press Release - 4th June 2008

Pink Ribbon Media Day Press Release

Irish Examiner: 26th February, 2008

Irish Examiner: 26th February, 2008 (photo)

Irish Independent: 27th February, 2008

Evening Herald: 28th October, 2007

Sunday Independent: 2nd March, 2008