Irish Open likely to be Nissan’s last

THE Irish Open at Carton House on May 18-21 is likely to be the last sponsored by Nissan Ireland, but chief executive Gerard O’Toole is unlikely to declare his intentions until at least the final day of the tournament.

However, Nissan will be more than gratified by the quality already received for this year’s event with a record prize fund of €2.2million.

The entry is headed by reigning US Open Champion Michael Campbell, the first winner under the Nissan flag at Portmarnock in 2003. Add in three times champion and 2005 European number one Colin Montgomerie, Ireland’s Ryder Cup heroes Darren Clarke, Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley along with a host of other world-class players.