What’s new on the Horizon for 2022’s Irish Open? (Part 1)
As the excitement builds, Siobhan Donohoe takes a trip to Mount Juliet to see how things are faring on and off the course
Championship Pavilion
Mark Dunne & Siobhan Donohoe celebrating on the 18th Hole, at the end of the 2021's Tournament
When people ask Mark Dunne what it will be like this year, his response is simple: “It will just be so much fun;" he said. "Last year we were test event number seven for reopening the country and we were very conscious of that. Everything we had in our plans to make it a spectacular event had to be taken away, yet it was hugely successful. From a test event perspective, it was well received, and it was nice to be part of returning to sport.”
“Last year we did it in six weeks, from start to finish. Even though the atmosphere here this year is different, we all feel a lot happier with the work all completed, this time last year was a lot more frantic!”
The Mount Juliet and European Tour team are bringing the party back to golf with a week of entertainment for the whole family. At the end of play for the Pro-Am on Wednesday, the ever popular Toploader will take to the stage to entertain the crowd, no doubt we will be Dancing in the Moonlight too!
Siobhan O’Sullivan, Director of Sales & Marketing
With 5,000 spectators a day permitted last year, and no hospitality allowed, what will this year’s Mount Juliet Estate look like with up to 18,000 visitors every day and what is on offer for them.
“The village is at least a third bigger in size this year, the festival atmosphere will be amazing, and we can celebrate more," said Siobhan O’Sullivan, Director of Sales & Marketing on the Estate. There will be free park and ride from Stoneyford and Thomastown and paid shuttle buses to and from Kilkenny."
Throughout the week we will have an afternoon tea option at the Manor House, please book this in advance to avoid disappointment. There will also be a Nespresso and Piaff Champagne tent at the Manor House, if you want to pop down for some bubbles.”
2021's Winner Lucas Herbert with Director of Golf Matt Sandercock
“It will be a couple of years before we have the Open in the South East again, so it would be nice to have Seamus Power from the South East win at Mount Juliet. However, Lucas Herbert is coming back to retain his title - so watch this space!”