Golf:The Irish Open starting tomorrow has made European Tour history by becoming their first regular event to sell out completely. A total of 27,000 people each day will descend on Royal Portrush as Northern Ireland stages the tournament for the first time since 1953.

Over 4,000 people attended the opening practice round, while a crowd of 14,225 were at the eve-of-tournament pro-am.

“The 2012 Irish Open has exceeded all expectations in terms of advance ticket sales. Following the announcement that the last three days were sold out, we had a considerable up-take for Thursday, which has culminated in us putting up the ‘sold out’ signs,” said Championship Director Antonia Beggs.

“We urge spectators not to arrive at the gate in hope of purchasing tickets, as there will be no further sales.”