2006 set to be the most memorable in Irish golfing history

WITH the Nissan Irish Open taking place at Carton House (Montgomerie Course) on May 18-21, the Smurfit European Open returning to the Smurfit (new) Course at The K-Club on July 3-6 and the Ryder Cup dominating all else over the Palmer (old) course at The K-Club on September 22-24, 2006 promises to be the most memorable in the history of golf in this country.

The European Tour released the 2006 schedule yesterday and it is similar to what we have seen in the past.

Still, there are four new tournaments, two events upgraded, two new courses and two significant date changes among the highlights. A new team contest between Europe and Asia The Royal Trophy at the Amata Spring Country Club, Bangkok, Thailand starts the New Year from January 7-8 2006, although a number of leading players like Padraig Harrington (in the middle of a nine-week break) and Paul McGinley (who will be recovering from knee surgery at the time) are unlikely to take part.