Royal County Down has been confirmed as the host of the 2007 Walker Cup. The event is contested between Europe's and the USA's top amateur golfers.
The Newcastle course, which has held the British Seniors Open for the last three years, will become only the second Irish club to host the event after Portmarnock in 1991.
Garth McGimpsey, the captain for this year's encounter and a member of that 1991 team said: "We had great support for that match and there is no doubt that Irish golfers will be right behind the team when they take on America in Newcastle.
"Royal County Down is a marvellous course and I am delighted that the Walker Cup is going to one of Ireland's finest, and without question one of its most scenic courses."
Royal County Down has hosted major championships almost since it was founded in 1889 when Old Tom Morris was given the task of laying out the original course.
Commenting on the announcement David Hill, Championship Secretary of the R&A said: "Having worked closely with Royal County Down in setting up the 1999 Amateur Championship, we are delighted that we will be back in four year's time for the Walker Cup."
"Royal County Down has always hosted popular and highly successful R&A events and we have no doubt that the Walker Cup will bring even more credit to this outstanding links course."