THE COLIN MONTGOMERIE-designed course at Carton House has been confirmed as the venue for the 2013 Irish Open golf tournament.

Prior speculation suggested the O’Meara course would be selected for the event, however Carton House Managing Partner Conor Mallaghan explained the reasons behind the choice.

“Following the recent construction development of the two new holes on the O’Meara and knowing how unpredictable Irish weather can be, we have decided that the Montgomerie course is the sensible option for 2013,” he said.

Meanwhile, speaking to reporters, Padraig Harrington added that he was delighted about the event returning to the location which originally hosted the tournament in 2005 and 2006:

“I am thrilled that the Irish Open is coming back to Dublin [sic] next year. As far as I am concerned it is my “Fifth Major” and whilst I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing at Royal Portrush earlier this year, as a Dubliner, it’s great to play in my home town and at the same time build on the success of this year’s tournament in the North.”

In addition, with the Irish Derby being held on the Saturday evening of the same weekend, organisers have announced plans for cross ticket promotion offers. Antonia Beggs, the Irish Open Championship Director, explained:

“We engaged in a successful collaboration with The Curragh during The Ryder Cup in 2006 when a special raceday was held for the wives of the European and United States Teams. Consequently, we got together with The Curragh to try to create an unforgettable sporting weekend combining world class golf and world class horse racing.”

The Irish Open takes place between 27 and 30 June.

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