IRELAND COMPETING AT 2007 NATIONS CUP IN ARUBA

Michael Hoey and Garth Maybin will represent Ireland at the 2007 Nations Cup in Aruba, Dutch Caribbean, from September 26 to September 30.

Ireland will be one of approximately 20 countries competing to secure one of the 5 qualifying sports for the World Cup of Golf to be held in China in November.

The Team Ireland Golf Trust has agreed to provide funding to each of the two players to cover their costs associated with attending the event in Aruba. This is in addition to their 2007 Trust awards. Michael Hoey, currently ranked 42nd on the Challenge Tour, was awarded a grant of €15,000 by the Trust earlier this year while Gareth Maybin, currently ranked 49th, received €10,000.

There is no prize money available at the event but the incentive is qualification for the prestigious World Cup, which Ireland won in 1997 through Padraig Harrington and Paul McGinley. In addition it is a major opportunity for emerging professionals to compete at a high international level in a team event. 

Furthermore the Trust grant ensures that Ireland attempts to qualify for an event in which it enjoys a long and successful history. 

The format for the competition is

Thursday - September 26: Best Ball
Friday - September 27: Alternate Shot
Saturday - September 28: Best Ball
Sunday - September 29: Alternate Shot

Team Ireland Golf Trust, which is administered by the Irish Sport Council, aims to contribute to an increase in the presence of Irish golf professionals on the various international tours. Since it was established in 2000 it has provided more than €1.5 million financial support to golfers to date. The Trust is a partnership between state agencies, private companies and the various golf organisations.

Further information from Austin Mallon on 01 8608813 or Paul McDermott on 087 6486295 or Declan Lee on OHC at 01 6602744