A MAJOR new strategic marketing initiative was launched today (Tuesday, May 26)Â to position Limerick as a premier international golf destination ahead of the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor.
Golf Limerick aims to ensure the global spotlight brought by the Ryder Cup delivers sustained economic and tourism benefits for Limerick in partnership with the seven Limerick Golf courses.
The first time initiative in partnership with Limerick’s seven golf courses in the city and county also hopes to integrate local hospitality, events and cultural and heritage attractions.
It also aims to provide a long-term platform for Limerick well after the Ryder Cup takes place next year to harness the visibility, reputation and visitor flow to Limerick.
Speaking to the Limerick Post at the launch in the Milk Market, Tom Enright, Project Director for the Ryder Cup said the initiative will mean the entire community can get involved: “One of the things we understand fully with the Ryder Cup is not everybody will be able to get tickets, so what are we hoping to do is offer people other events to attend”.
Among the plans include the previously announced fan zone in Limerick City as well as a smaller fan zone for fans in Newcastle West.
Earlier this month, it was reported that the Minister for Communications and Limerick TD Patrick O’Donovan was asked to intervene in a row over tickets for the Ryder Cup in host town Adare.
While households in the village received two complimentary passes, those based outside the wider parish were not included.
When asked about the row, Mr Enright commented:Â “The feedback I have got has been overwhelmingly positive from people who have got tickets and I think it’s the first time that’s been done in a Ryder Cup where tickets have been given to local people. So I think it’s nice to see the Ryder Cup doing that. I think some people have raised issues, and I think those issues will be dealt with in due course”.
Also there to enjoy some golf and a day off school in the sunshine was fourth class students from Thomond Primary School who practiced their tee offs with a golf simulator screen.
Cathal O’Byrne, Golf In The Community Officer in Limerick for Golf Ireland said the Ryder Cup has significantly increased the sports popularity in Limerick.
“We go around to schools in Limerick and just talking to the kids and these delivering programmes, they are now all very aware of golf and what’s going on”.
“Golf Ireland will continue to support events like this from Limerick City and County Council and we will be doing more promotions in schools and places across the region for people who want to give golf a try”, he added.
As part of the campaign rollout, a new Golf Limerick video promotional asset has also been developed, celebrating golf through a Limerick lens and showcasing the local golf courses across the county.
A new Golf Limerick YouTube channel also launches today offering inspiration and practical information for those planning a visit to Limerick.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran said: “The launch of Golf Limerick marks a significant step in how we maximise the opportunity presented by the Ryder Cup 2027. While the event itself will bring global attention, this initiative ensures that Limerick continues to benefit long after the final putt. It is about positioning our city and county as a world-class destination, not just for golf, but for the full experience we have to offer.”
PrÃomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery commented: “This new brand is about showcasing the very best of our county in a coordinated and ambitious way. From our outstanding courses to our rich culture, heritage and welcoming communities, this initiative brings everything together under a strong and recognisable identity. It also reflects the importance of supporting our local tourism sector and creating real opportunities for businesses across Limerick.”
Director General of Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly added: “Golf Limerick is a strategic investment in the long-term economic development of Limerick. The Ryder Cup provides a unique global platform, and it is essential that we leverage that visibility in a structured and sustainable way. This initiative demonstrates strong collaboration between the Council, tourism partners and stakeholders to deliver lasting impact and position Limerick as a leading international golf destination.”
Discover Limerick’s Golf Courses by visiting Limerick.ie/golf. A full range of Golf Limerick apparel in association with KC Sports is now also available here.