Legacy Primary Schools Golf Programme launched ahead of this years’ 148th Open
Fri, March 15, 2019
A Primary Schools Golf Programme is to benefit from the legacy of the 148th Open at Royal Portrush this July with funding from the Department for Communities
The programme will offer up to thirty primary schools across the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area to get involved in golf in the school environment. The primary schools involved will be offered taster sessions in fun golf and provided with age appropriate golf equipment along with both pupils and teachers receiving expert training in golf.
Speaking at the launch, Department for Communities Deputy Secretary Moira Doherty, said: “The Open Legacy Primary Schools Golf Programme is an important element of the Department’s wider investment and support to the area. The programme offers a great opportunity for golf to be introduced and promoted throughout local schools for local school children.
“It is fantastic that Portrush is hosting The Open, which is one of the greatest sporting occasions in the world, this summer. It will have a lasting impact for many throughout Northern Ireland and it’s important we harness this interest and excitement, particularly at grass roots levels, and this primary schools golf programme will help with that.”
The programme is being delivered to primary schools in partnership with the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, local golf clubs, the University of Ulster Golf Scholars and the Golfing Union of Ireland.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Councillor Brenda Chivers, said: "The Open represents a very exciting opportunity for the region, and as the largest sporting event ever held here it is set to have a far-reaching impact. As well as encouraging visitor numbers and creating a significant economic return I am delighted to see that it is also being used to engage our young people and support healthy and active lifestyles.
“This funding will introduce local school pupils to golf and help promote the many benefits of taking part in sport. We are grateful to the Department for Communities who provided this important financial support and we are very pleased to be working alongside all our partners to ensure the momentum created by The Open is felt throughout our local community."
Amelia Michalska from St Patricks Primary School Portrush and Paul Fletcher from Portrush Primary School are joined on Royal Portrush Golf Club green by Moira Doherty, Deputy Secretary, Department for Communities and Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Brenda Chivers as they launch the Legacy Primary Schools Golf Programme ahead of The 148th Open. DfC is providing £35k for the programme which is part of the £100,000 funding recently announced for a range of The Open legacy activities.