Ryder Cup is coming to Portrush

European Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke holds the Ryder Cup trophy during the media day at the Sofitel Heathrow, London. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Monday March 23, 2015. Photo credit should read: John Walton/PA Wire

European captain Clarke will launch the tour at 2019 Open venue Royal Portrush on April 12, although the trophy will first travel by helicopter from Gleneagles - scene of Europe’s third consecutive win in 2014.

The Ryder Cup will go on public display in Belfast the following day, where members of the public will be given the chance to be photographed alongside one of the most famous trophies in world sport.

Adopted Portrush man Clarke said: “As captain of the European team, I’m delighted that so many people across the continent will get the opportunity to share their excitement and take part in The Ryder Cup Trophy Tour.

“I hope that European golf fans will take the opportunity to come and see the trophy when it’s on display and get behind Team Europe, ahead of the match at Hazeltine in September.”

European Ryder Cup director Richard Hills added: “We are delighted to be launching the Ryder Cup Trophy Tour and giving golf fans on both sides of the Atlantic the opportunity to get closer to the wonderful trophy itself.”