This week in Portrush, Northern Ireland, excitement is building not just for the 153rd Open Championship but also for an annual parade hosted by the Portrush Sons of Ulster. Scheduled for Saturday night, the procession will feature numerous marching bands, drawing an estimated couple of thousand spectators to the town’s streets for a night of music and celebration starting at 8:30 p.m., following the tournament’s third round.
To accommodate both the golf tournament and the parade, R&A chief Mark Darbon announced adjustments to the third-round tee times, moving them forward by about 15 minutes. While precise starting times have yet to be confirmed, an example from the 2024 Open at Royal Troon saw the final pairing tee off at 10:45 a.m. local time. Darbon emphasized the challenges of scheduling outdoor events, particularly in unpredictable weather, and referred to this change as a “slight tweak.”
Earlier reports indicated that the R&A had offered £20,000 to the Portrush Sons of Ulster to postpone the parade, a proposal that the organization declined. Darbon, in addressing this issue, highlighted the R&A’s commitment to ensuring a seamless experience for both events while emphasizing the importance of security and community cooperation during large gatherings.
Allister Kyle, a politician involved in discussions between the two parties, confirmed that while there was indeed a monetary offer from the R&A, it came too late for the parade organizers, who had already made substantial preparations. He acknowledged that a larger offer might not have altered the outcome, reflecting the parade’s significance to the participants and community.
The Portrush Sons of Ulster expressed their dedication to maintaining the parade as planned, despite the challenges posed by the Open Championship. They acknowledge concerns regarding parking and public transport during this busy period, reassuring the community of their commitment to the event.
This convergence of major events in Portrush brings both challenges and opportunities to showcase local culture and community spirit. The parade is a longstanding tradition that adds to the vibrancy of the area, highlighting the community’s resilience and enthusiasm even in the face of logistical difficulties.