Seven more invites for Irish Open

ALTHOUGH entries for the 3 Irish Open have closed, organisers hope to attract some more high profile stars to Killarney this month.

England’s Justin Rose, twice a winner on the US Tour this year, and German Martin Kaymer are amongst those who may accept one of the seven invitational places.

The star-studded field includes home favourites Rory McIlroy, Graeme McDowell and Pádraig Harrington.

Ross Fisher, Alvaro Quiros, Francesco Molinari, Rhys Davies, Peter Hanson, Ross McGowan and Simon Dyson, all of whom are battling hard for a Ryder Cup berth, are also confirmed.

So far, only 17 year-old Italian prodigy Matteo Manassero has received an invitation.

Meanwhile the event sponsors yesterday unveiled the trophy which will be presented to the winner on August 1.

Perfect Swing was designed by National College of Art and Design student Michelle Kiely and is made from cut and polished crystal from Waterford and Newbridge silver.

Kiely said the design was “inspired by the swing of the golf club on teeing off but represents the complete game from the perfect swing to putting the ball. To be involved in the production of the trophy and to be able to see it take shape and touch it, it is a great feeling. I just hope now that everyone else likes it, including the winner.”