Padraig Harrington – Ireland's official Golf Ambassador.

Fáilte Ireland and the Irish golf industry were delighted and proud that Padraig Harrington agreed in 2010 to be the central figure for the "Golf Ireland – Time to Play" brand. Padraig is already a true Irish golf ambassador – every time he plays or speaks about golf anywhere in the world, it is very clear he is representing his country and is proud of his heritage and the support he enjoys back home. Fáilte Ireland, the national tourism development authority, believes that Padraig's values enhance Ireland's international golf brand message.

To develop a unique Irish golf identity, one which Ireland is proud to call its own, this golf brand needed a leader. It needed someone who represented the values of Irish golf and could best lead Ireland's new call for international golfers to visit our shores.

In addition, the Irish golf industry was also looking for a beacon, one that they could rally behind and energise this exciting new initiative. In Padraig, it found that person. Padraig's role involves being at the forefront of Irish golf tourism promotions and helping to promote the "Golf Ireland – Time to Play" golf brand overseas.

Ireland boasts some of the best golf courses in the world, from links to parkland, all of which provide a friendly welcome to any visitor. Golf in Ireland is more than just a round of 18 holes. It's a unique global invitation that evokes great memories and offers the challenge of playing inspiring golf courses. Irish golf offers a real connection and sense of fun – both on and off the course.

The Irish golf experience is among the best in the world and Fáilte Ireland has no doubt that Padraig's advocacy will help maintain Ireland's reputation as a destination for high quality and challenging golf.