The golfing paradise of Sligo is set to host the prestigious Ireland Golf Tour Operator Association (IGTOA) National Golf Tourism Conference and Gala Awards this October. Following on from an incredibly successful event last year in Newcastle Co. Down, Golf industry leaders and golf tourism providers of all kind will meet at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sligo on the 20th and 21st of October. Delegates will see first-hand what Sligo has to offer in addition to participating in the Golf competition in Co. Sligo Golf Club on Monday 21st October before attending the event highlight where the best of the best in Irish Golf Tourism receive well deserved awards.
The IGTOA Annual get together is the pivotal event in the golf tourism industry calendar in Ireland, attracting tour operators, golf course managers, accommodation providers, transport companies and tourism officials who are passionate about promoting Ireland as a premier golf destination.
This is the 27th year of the event featuring the landmark gala awards and is a hugely significant gathering, with a comprehensive program that includes insightful panel discussions and critical networking opportunities.
“We are so proud that the IGTOA have chosen Sligo and the Radisson Blu Hotel for this prestigious event,” said Paula Scallan Director of Sales and Marketing from the Radisson Hotel And Spa.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to highlight Sligo’s unique appeal as a golf destination, with its breathtaking landscapes, world-class courses, and vibrant cultural heritage. We look forward to welcoming delegates and showcasing all that Sligo has to offer.”
Barry Maye from IGTOA has extended a welcome to all golf tourism professionals and stakeholders in Ireland to the 2024 conference
“As the representative body of Ireland’s leading golf operators, we put together a meaningful and constructive schedule that will benefit not just our golf tour operators but all delegates culminating in Ireland’s most influential golf tourism event. Our members are responsible for generating €100m annually into the Irish economy and we know that getting the chance to meet up over the two days further fosters the essential collaboration amongst our industry colleagues. Our awards recognise some of the best professionals across the industry and this year for the first time will include awards for sustainability projects”
Barry also points out that “Golf tourists and clients of our members spend 4 to 6 times more than the average tourist supporting the national and importantly rural economies where golf tourism is so critical to sustaining local employment”
Sligo offers three iconic links courses located along its stunning Atlantic coast. County Sligo Golf Club at Rosses Point, Strandhill Golf Club and Enniscrone Golf Club are globally renowned for their spectacular layout, friendly welcome and the challenge that they offer players of all ability. These are then complimented by two wonderful inland parkland courses at Castle Dargan and Tubbercurry.
In addition to golf and networking, delegates at this year’s event will have the opportunity to explore Sligo’s rich cultural and historical attractions. Sligo proudly boasts that it is the adventure and activity capital of the north west of Ireland and the perfect place to immerse yourself in the landscape and unique culture.
The IGTOA Conference in Sligo is poised to be a landmark event for the region, providing a platform to strengthen relationships within the golf tourism industry and promote Sligo as a top-tier destination for golfers from around the world.
For more information about the IGTOA Conference and to register, please click here.