The first day of the Irish Open at Royal County Down enjoyed sunny weather, contrasting with the driving rain across much of the north east, providing ideal conditions for the tournament despite some brief squalls during play.
The wind increased the difficulty of the already challenging course, yet the stunning views of Slieve Donard enhanced the experience for both players and spectators.
While the players struggled with scoring, with no one achieving better than two-under-par during the morning rounds with the imposing Mourne Mountains in the background, framing the TV coverage worldwide
Rory McIlroy was focus of the largest crowds on the day, creating a vibrant atmosphere around the driving range and tented village filled with local food vendors and tourism stalls.
The Open is worth an estimated €30m to the local economy while the sport drove €500m in Irish golf revenues in 2023.
