by Q Radio News
Last night Tourism NI marked the start of the official build-up to The 148th Open at Royal Portrush. The event was held at the Titanic Belfast.
Celebrations kicked off with Tourism NI unveiling a short cinematic film, produced by Martin Stalker, to celebrate just how Northern Ireland has come as a leading tourist destination.
Set to an original poem by local poet Paula Matthews, the film is narrated by leading actors Ian McElhinney, Bronagh Waugh, Saoirse-Monica Jackson and Shaun Blaney.
The film is accompanied by an original score composed and performed by Belfast-born virtuoso pianist, Michael McHale.
Last word to the one and only @AP_McCoy - tells @goQradio @qnewsdesk @NITouristBoard Eyes on @TheOpen event @TitanicBelfast @royalportrush 2019 will be "phenomenal, fantastic support, homegrown stars & @TigerWoods..." The latest news on air from 6am pic.twitter.com/eWdctuCEVb
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) 1 February 2019
Martin Slumbers, chief executive of the R&A, said: “There is great excitement among golf fans for the return of The Open to Royal Portrush for the first time in nearly 70 years. “This is reflected in the unprecedented demand for tickets which has led to all four Championship days being sold out for the very first time and the evident enthusiasm for golf throughout the island of Ireland.”
.@DUPleader @NITouristBoard Eyes on @TheOpen event @TitanicBelfast - @royalportrush 2019 "Hugely, hugely important for NI & the tourism industry." pic.twitter.com/xfCj2ueFXi
— Q Radio News (@qnewsdesk) 31 January 2019
Speaking at the event, Tourism NI chairman Terence Brannigan said: “The ambitious plans set 10 years ago have transformed Northern Ireland and our ambitions for the future are just as big. Our golfing story is a global success and that has brought us right here tonight as we look forward to 190,000 fans and visitors from across the globe descending on Royal Portrush in July for the biggest sporting event ever held in Northern Ireland.
“The 148th Open will leave a legacy that will benefit Northern Ireland for years to come. It will boost our reputation as a premier destination for international events and gives a well-earned boost to the development of our hard-working tourism businesses."