Ambassador training set to begin ahead of The 148th Open
Tue, December 18, 2018
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Tourism NI have unveiled plans to train 500 people as destination and golf ambassadors ahead of The 148th Open.
The iconic championship takes place at Royal Portrush from July 14th – 21st and is set to be the biggest sporting event ever held here.
The WorldHost training programme, which will be delivered by accredited trainers at a number of local golf clubs across the Causeway Coast and Glens from January 2019, is aimed at those in the retail, tourism, accommodation and hospitality sectors. It will cover a range of themes, including communication, making an excellent first impression and the value of the tourism economy, all with the golf visitor in mind.
Encouraging participants to avail of the opportunity, the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Brenda Chivers said: “We are expecting to welcome tens of thousands of people to The 148th Open, Royal Portrush and many of these will be first-time visitors to the area. It is vitally important that our business community is equipped with the appropriate knowledge and understanding to create positive experiences which will set us apart as a destination.
“Research has shown that 70% of spectators will return again to the host area so it’s crucial that we position ourselves to capitalise on this potential legacy market. Our landscapes, local produce and visitor attractions have helped to make us Lonely Planet’s Number One place to visit and we want to ensure this is matched by first class customer service.
“WorldHost is a nationally recognised programme and I would encourage our trade to avail of this important upskilling opportunity as we prepare to welcome the golfing world to the area.”
Leanne Rice, Tourism NI’s Golf Marketing Manager said: “The 148th Open will facilitate many opportunities for business during the event and beyond. Delivering a world class experience is essential for encouraging visitors to return. By delivering excellence at every touch point we ensure the visitors’ experience is positive and memorable and that they feel compelled to return to play golf, enjoy our visitor attractions and our world class hospitality.”
The WorldHost training programme, which has been subsidised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Tourism NI, costs £15 per delegate including lunch and will be delivered through a half day workshop.
There are various dates to choose from beginning in January 2019.
Click here to find out more and book your place
Looking ahead to upcoming training opportunities ahead of The 148th Open which takes place at Royal Portrush Golf Club are WorldHost trainers Jean Haworth and Steven Chambers, Samantha Munroe, Assistant Professional, Royal Portrush Golf Club, WorldHost trainer Wendy Gallagher, Leanne Rice, Tourism NI's Golf Marketing Manager and the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Councillor Brenda Chivers.