McGee and Phelan gunning for Irish Open glory

Rosapenna's Ruaidhri McGee

Rosapenna's Ruaidhri McGee can't wait to take advantage of his invitation from Sport Ireland to compete in next week's Dubai Duty Free Irish Open at The K Club.

Selected alongside fellow Team Ireland grant recipient Kevin Phelan to tee it up next week alongside the likes of host Rory McIlroy and Masters champion Danny Willett, McGee said: "It's huge.

"It's such a big tournament the Irish Open. Obviously being my home tournament it's great to get to play in it. It could make a huge difference to the season. You have a good week there and it could change everything.

"Sport Ireland have helped me out for the past three years now, it's been huge. I don't if I'd be where I am now without their support. I probably couldn't have played nearly as much as I have without it. It's been a great help."

John Treacy, CEO Sport Ireland commented "I am delighted that Sport Ireland, through its sponsorship of the Irish Open, has been able to offer invitations to two emerging Irish golfers, Kevin Phelan and Ruaidhri McGee. This will provide both players with the opportunity to play in a top class European Tour event on home soil and also to help further their careers as professional golfers."

Both McGee and Phelan received financial assistance this year from Sport Ireland as part of the Team Ireland Golf fund which is administered by the Confederation of Golf in Ireland.

Redmond O'Donoghue, Chairman of the Confederation of Golf in Ireland said: "We are delighted that Sport Ireland have extended these invitations to Ruaidhri and Kevin. The opportunity to test themselves on this level will help them develop and improve as young professionals. The support that Sport Ireland give to our aspiring golfers is very much appreciated by everyone involved."

Tickets to see this mixture of home-grown and international stars in action at the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open can be purchased at www.dubaidutyfreeirishopen.com and are priced at only €30 per day.