As all eyes focus on the Budget 2027, up to €20,000 in grants has been announced by the Ryder Cup for local businesses and projects.
This time next year, Limerick will take centre stage as it hosts The Ryder Cup’s 100th year anniversary tournament.
The USA vs Europe golfing sensation is set to be a huge spectacle for all corners of the county, but it will also have a lasting impact on the local community. Ryder Cup Europe has launched a new Impact and Legacy Fund for the 2027 edition.
The fund provides grants of up to €20,000 to local organisations and projects. Applicants must be working to create a positive impact on the Limerick region in one of five areas to be eligible.
Community, skills and education, environment, disability and regeneration were the areas chosen to align with the 2023-2028 Local Economic and Community Plan for Limerick City and County.
Applications are open and will close January 29, 2027 with successful applicants being informed in April.
The Ryder Cup captains, Jim Furyk and Luke Donald, visited Limerick City to mark one year until the Ryder Cup tees off in Adare Manor.
The golfing legends were interviewed by Limerick-native Louise Cantillon on stage in King John’s Castle, building excitement for next year’s festivities.
Team Europe captain Donald tipped Adare Manor as a “fitting” venue for The Ryder Cup’s centenary year.
Donald hailed: “It’s a great rivalry (The Ryder Cup); it’s something really unique in our sport. It’s so fitting that we are here in Ireland, with the McManus family at Adare Manor to celebrate 100 years.
“I saw the cheers for JP (McManus) and his family. They obviously have just endeared themselves to the local community and what they’ve done. It’s only fitting that we celebrate that 100 years with them, next year in Adare.”
Donald and Furyk visited Limerick City back in May. The pair were guests of JP McManus at the Limerick hurler’s Munster Championship clash with Tipperary.
Furyk and Donald were impressed by the sport, and the team USA captain has even become a staunch Limerick hurling fan. Furyk followed their All-Ireland winning season and even attended the final in Croke Park.
The 2003 US Open winner hailed: “I loved it. I actually kind of fell in love with the sport. I flew in, landed on a red eye.”
“I just fell in love with the speed of the game, the hand-eye coordination and the athleticism. It reminded me of my son playing college lacrosse back home.”
Donald was also impressed by hurling and was in awe of Limerick GAA’s recent All-Ireland success and manager John Kiely’s leadership.
The English golfer added: “Hats off to John Kiely. Great leadership. I think it’s been incredible what they’ve done.”
“They went what, 45 years, without winning? And then suddenly they’ve won six since 2018. It’s been incredible what they’ve done.”