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The economic powerhouse of Irish golf takes centre stage in this bonus podcast episode with the leaders behind a groundbreaking new economic impact study. 

What does a sport contribute when it delivers €717 million annually to the economy, supports 15,600 jobs, and returns seventeen times more to government coffers than it receives?

Professor Simon Shibli from Sheffield Hallam University breaks down the meticulous six-month research process that uncovered what he calls "the holy trinity" of economic indicators. His findings show golf represents 14% of all sport-related consumer spending in Ireland, with approximately €1 in every €200 of discretionary spending somehow connected to the sport. The contribution is so substantial that golf's economic impact is measurable within the context of the entire Irish economy, not just the sporting sector.

Perhaps most striking is the phenomenal growth trajectory, with participation increasing 86% over nine years. Mark Kennelly, CEO of Golf Ireland, explains how this growth spans both traditional club memberships and newer, more accessible formats of the game. With 22% of non-golfers expressing interest in trying the sport, representing a potential audience of over one million people, the ceiling for further growth seems limitless.

The conversation extends beyond participation numbers, with Robert Oxley from the R&A discussing the upcoming Open Championship at Royal Portrush, one of many prestigious events coming to Irish shores, and tantalising hints about future Open Championships potentially being held in the Republic of Ireland.

Whether you're a golf enthusiast, business leader, or policymaker, this episode provides evidence of how a single sport can drive significant economic activity while simultaneously delivering health, social, and community benefits. Listen now to understand why golf might just be Ireland's most valuable sporting asset.

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