Open Champion Padraig Harrington has extended his support to the players at this week’s Challenge of Ireland presented by Glasson.

Harrington believes the €150,000 European Challenge Tour event, which starts on Thursday at Glasson Golf Hotel & Country Club, Athlone, County Westmeath, can play a defining role in the development of Ireland and Europe’s next generation of golfing talent.

“Hosting a Challenge Tour event can bring huge benefits to Ireland’s professional players,” said Harrington before heading to America for this week’s WGC – Bridgestone Invitational and next week’s USPGA Championship.

“The Challenge Tour is a tough school and if you are good enough to earn your European Tour card through the Challenge Tour then you can compete at any level.

“It’s great that Ireland has the chance to host an event like this, because it gives our young professionals the opportunity to gain experience against a high quality international field in tough tournament conditions. I wish all players the best of luck for the tournament.”

A total of 25 Irish players will feature at Glasson Golf Hotel & Country Club, along with many of Europe’s brightest young talents, including Challenge Tour Number One and 2005 US Amateur champion, Edoardo Molinari of Italy, in addition to seasoned campaigners such as former Ryder Cup player Peter Baker of England.

For Further Information contact:
Communications Division
The European Tour
Tel: +44 (0) 1344 840400
Fax: +44 (0) 1344 840444
Email: media@europeantour.com