TEN years after she claimed the Women’s Irish Open golf tournament, one of the top golfers on the circuit has returned to Clare to defend her title.

Catriona Matthew has flown into Shannon Airport today ahead of the KPMG Women’s Irish Open, which is being held for the first time since 2012.

It will be the first time for a Ladies European Tour event to be played in Ireland since 2012. The competition will see 126 of the best professionals on the Ladies European Tour and leading Irish Amateurs take to the 18-hole Championship Course.

The Shannon Airport Group CEO Mary Considine said, “It is wonderful to see Catriona and many other players arrive here at Shannon Airport this week, which is only 20 minutes from the Dromoland Castle venue.

“We are delighted to be an official partner of the KPMG Women’s Irish Open which is a superb showcase for County Clare. As well as highlighting the fantastic golfing talent, it is a welcome boost to tourism in the region.

“With the international media coverage it generates, and the TV footage from the event being beamed around the world, we are confident it will create a lasting legacy by attracting international golf enthusiasts and holidaymakers to the area,” said Ms Considine.

The KMPG Women’s Irish Open tees off from Thursday September 22 until Sunday 25.