Hope has been expressed that the focus of September’s high-profile golf tournament in Doonbeg will be on the sport rather than the resort’s owner.
It comes after US President Donald Trump expressed his intention to attend the Amgen Irish Open at Trump International Golf Links and Hotel in Doonbeg.
Stars like Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Padraig Harrington, Seamus Power and Jon Rahm have all confirmed their plans to compete in the West Clare event, which is set to draw roughly 70,000 spectators to the county.
Despite this, onlookers locally, nationally and internationally are waiting with bated breath to see if an even more high-profile name will turn up.
In a Fourth of July video message played to guests at the US ambassador’s Dublin residence, Donald Trump said he was looking forward to visiting to watch “Rory and all the great players”.
Asked for his perspective, Championship Director Paul Gillmon said “we’ve planned for all scenarios” and “if he comes, which is a big if, it will be disruptive but that goes with the territory”.
Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney fears a media circus could distract from the world-class golfing on display.
Trump Doonbeg has previously been the site of protests and demonstrations highlighting the US’s role in the conflict in Gaza, as well as the 47th US president’s views and policies on the likes of race, immigration, the climate and gender.
Doonbeg community member Tommy Commerford wants people to allow the tournament to go ahead without disruption, while acknowledging the positive impact of the US on Ireland’s economy.
Listen to the full interview here
