IN 2014, Failte Ireland launched the spectacular 2,500 kilometre coastal route known as the Wild Atlantic Way. It was promoted on a global scale, confirming what we’ve always known in our hearts… that we are blessed with some of the most dramatic and inspiring scenery on the planet.

Just over five years ago, no Irish golfer had won a major since Fred Daly in the 1947 Open, but how times have changed.

Four years ago no Irish golfer had won a major since Fred Daly in the 1947 Open.

Four years ago no Irish golfer had won a major since Fred Daly in the 1947 Open, but how times have changed.

Two-time Open champion Padraig Harrington has become the first “Working for Golf” ambassador for the sport’s ruling Royal and Ancient Club.

Irish golfing star Padraig Harrington said he was “thrilled” to receive an honorary degree today.

TULLAMORE, a splendid midlands course originally designed by James Braid and subsequently upgraded by Patrick Merrigan, is the venue for the finals of the Bulmers Irish Cups and Shields from September 16-19.

THE BOOKMAKERS don’t often get it wrong but after studying the less than overwhelming performances by our leading players in recent tournaments, it is surprising to see Pádraig Harrington (25/1) and Rory McIlroy (28/1), quoted as third and fourth favourites for this week’s Open Championship at Turnberry.

Padraig Harrington today insisted the Order of Merit would not be devalued if he failed to win it despite claiming back-to-back major titles this season.

PÁDRAIG HARRINGTON now lies joint 10th on the European list of major winners.

Padraig Harrington has been named the European Tour Golfer of the Month for July following the successful defence of his Open Championship title at Royal Birkdale.

Padraig Harrington never expected a second major victory to follow so soon after the first.

Open runner-up Ian Poulter paid tribute to Padraig Harrington for impressively defending his Open title at Royal Birkdale on Sunday.

Padraig Harrington was delighted to regain possession of a “shinier” Claret Jug after claiming his second Open Championship in succession in superb style on a windswept final day at Royal Birkdale.

Ireland’s Padraig Harrington today won his second Open Championship in succession in superb style on a windswept final day at Royal Birkdale.

Ireland's Padraig Harrington believes the wrist injury which had the defence of his Open title in doubt has been a blessing in disguise.

Padraig Harrington did not know whether he could defend The Open when he woke up on Thursday morning, but as wind caused havoc at Royal Birkdale on Saturday he found himself up into second place.

Padraig Harrington came charging back into contention for a successful defence of The Open with an eagle-birdie finish to his second round at Royal Birkdale today.

Scotland. The birthplace of golf, the home of Monty, Sam Torrance, Sandy Lyle, Paul Lawrie, James Braid (more of whom anon) and others. Yes, if you want to talk about golf destinations, it would be pretty odd to omit Scotland.