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NI Collegiate Invitational to Bring Leading U.S. University Golf Programs to Galgorm Castle for International Competition

A landmark moment for collegiate golf is set to arrive in 2027 with the launch of the NI Collegiate Invitational, a new international championship set to become the first Division I collegiate golf tournament held in Northern Ireland. Scheduled for September 5-9, 2027, at the acclaimed Galgorm Resort the inaugural event will bring leading U.S. university golf programs together for a world-class competition in one of golf's most celebrated elite destinations.

Developed through a strategic partnership between Cara Group Travel, Boardwalk Sports, and Galgorm, the NI Collegiate Invitational brings together leaders in international sports travel, collegiate event management, and championship golf operations to create a new global showcase for collegiate golf. The partners share a vision of establishing Northern Ireland as the home of one of the most distinctive and prestigious events on the collegiate golf calendar.

"College golf continues to evolve, and we believe the next frontier is global competition," said Sara Stanton, Managing Director of Cara Group Travel. "The NI Collegiate Invitational is about much more than golf. It is about creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience where student-athletes compete at the highest level while gaining exposure to a different culture, a European golfing environment, and a broader perspective on the game that originated in the United Kingdom. Northern Ireland offers a championship setting unlike anywhere else in the world."

The tournament is expected to feature up to 16 leading Division I men's golf programs competing in both team and individual championships as part of their regular-season Division I schedules. Organizers believe the event represents a significant step forward in the globalisation of collegiate sports and could serve as a model for future international competitions.

Hosted at the acclaimed Galgorm Castle Golf Club, the championship venue stands among the most distinguished tournament courses in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Home to the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open in 2020 and a long-time host of the Northern Ireland Open, Galgorm Castle has welcomed some of the biggest names in professional golf while earning an international reputation for championship-calibre competition. Most recently, the venue hosted the NI Legends on the European Legends Tour, with Steve Alker (New Zealand) victorious, making it three wins in three weeks for the Kiwi following two PGA Tour Champions wins before travelling across the pond for the NI Legends. Against this backdrop of professional excellence, the championship will offer student-athletes a rare opportunity to compete on the same fairways that have challenged tour winners and major champions, while experiencing the rich golfing culture that has made Northern Ireland one of the sport's most revered destinations.

"Galgorm has earned an international reputation for delivering exceptional championship golf experiences, and we are delighted to play a role in bringing this groundbreaking event to Northern Ireland," said Gary Henry, Group Golf Director, Galgorm Collection. "Welcoming some of America's premier university golf programs to compete here reflects both the quality of the venue and Northern Ireland's standing as a global golf destination. We believe this event has the potential to become one of the most prestigious international experiences in collegiate golf. It represents a unique opportunity to showcase our championship course, our hospitality, and the incredible golf offering that exists throughout Northern Ireland to the next generation of elite players."

Northern Ireland has established itself as one of the world's premier golf destinations, home to iconic courses, major championship venues, and a rich tradition of golfing excellence. The NI Collegiate Invitational aims to leverage that momentum while building stronger connections between collegiate athletics, international travel, and sport tourism.

"This is exactly the type of innovative event that can help redefine what's possible in collegiate golf," said Rich Ensor, Chief Executive Officer of Boardwalk Sports. "Today's student-athletes are looking for experiences that combine meaningful competition with personal growth, international exposure, and lifelong memories. By creating a championship of this calibre in Northern Ireland, we are providing universities with an opportunity unlike any other currently available in collegiate golf. We believe the NI Collegiate Invitational can become a marquee event that attracts many of the top programs in collegiate golf while helping to further internationalise the sport."

Recent changes to collegiate athletics travel regulations have created new opportunities for institutions to expand their international competition schedules, helping pave the way for innovative events such as the NI Collegiate Invitational. Organisers expect the combination of elite competition, a world-class venue, and an extraordinary destination experience to make the championship one of the most attractive events on the collegiate golf calendar. The organisers expect to soon announce the 2027 field and its broadcast partner.

In addition to competition at Galgorm Castle, participating student-athletes will have the opportunity to experience Northern Ireland's culture, hospitality, and globally acclaimed golf landscape, further distinguishing the event from traditional collegiate tournaments.

With interest already building among leading Division I programs and key industry partners, organizers believe the NI Collegiate Invitational has the potential to become a defining event in collegiate golf. Envisioned as an annual fixture on the collegiate golf calendar, the championship aims to establish a new benchmark for international competition by bringing elite university programs to one of the world's great golf destinations. More than a tournament, the NI Collegiate Invitational seeks to connect student-athletes, universities, and the global golf community while showcasing Northern Ireland's unique place in the game and helping shape the future of international collegiate golf.

Award winning hospitality group, Galgorm Collection has announced its support for local tennis ace, Emma Mezei, who recently finished runner-up in the prestigious William Fry All Ireland Under 10 Junior Championships, hosted at the Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club in Dublin.

Aged just 10, Emma has achieved remarkable results at tournaments across Ireland and against some of the best junior players the country has to offer. Her recent All-Ireland achievement has also claimed her a place in the history books by being the first member of Ballymena Lawn Tennis Club to reach an All-Ireland junior final in over 40 years. 

With ambitions to progress to Tennis Europe competitions, the three-year partnership with Galgorm Collection will support Emma with entry fees and equipment, helping her to continue developing and competing at a high level. 

“Huge congratulations to Emma on her recent All-Ireland result. Going up against some of the country’s top junior players and finishing in second place is certainly no mean feat. We’ve no doubt that Emma’s talent and success will continue and we’re so proud to support such a determined local athlete,” said Colin Johnston, CEO of Galgorm Collection.

“Sport develops so many skills that are equally valuable in the workplace from teamwork and perseverance to dedication and problem-solving. As a Collection that employs over 1,400 people across Northern Ireland, we see those qualities every day in our teams.

“We’re really looking forward to supporting Emma in her ventures over the next three years and we wish her the very best of luck.”

Commenting on the partnership, Emma’s father, Csabi Mezei added: “We’re so proud of Emma’s accomplishments so far and are very grateful to Galgorm Collection’s support which will help her continue to develop her skills and experience on the court.

“Emma is passionate about tennis and loves the challenge of competing. Her ambition is to experience more high level competition, including selected Tennis Europe tournaments, and the support from Galgorm Collection will help make those opportunities possible. We’re excited to see where her hard work will take her over the next few years.”

This partnership forms part of Galgorm Collection’s wider community engagement programme, which includes support for Ballymena Hockey Club, All Saints GAA, Netball NI and a range of local sports clubs, schools, charities and societies.

As one of Northern Ireland’s leading hospitality groups, with a portfolio encompassing hotels, restaurants and golf experiences, Galgorm Collection continues to invest in organisations and individuals that drive participation, wellbeing and positive social impact at a local level. As the Group continues to grow, its focus remains firmly on delivering meaningful economic and social impact across the region.

At Galgorm, guests can experience the future of skincare with the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial - an advanced, results-driven treatment designed to deliver immediate, visible results. Combining cutting-edge technology with powerful active ingredients, this intelligent facial works to visibly lift, brighten, hydrate and rejuvenate the skin, while still offering a deeply relaxing experience.

Unlike traditional facials, the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial is fully tailored to the skin’s individual needs, targeting concerns such as visible signs of ageing, dehydration, congestion and dullness through a combination of advanced skincare technologies.

Deep Cleanse & Glow

The treatment begins with Ultrasonic Technology, which uses gentle ultrasonic waves to deeply cleanse and exfoliate the skin. This helps clear pores, remove dull dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, smoother complexion with an instant glow. Gentle yet effective, it is suitable even for sensitive skin.

Lift, Tone & Firm

Microcurrent Technology works to visibly lift, tone and sculpt the facial contours using gentle microcurrents. Often described as a non-invasive facelift, this technology helps support collagen and elastin production, leaving skin looking firmer, smoother and more youthful over time.

Deep Nourishment & Balance

Using Galvanic Technology, professional grade serums are encouraged to penetrate deeper into the skin where active ingredients can work more effectively. This also helps draw out impurities, leaving the complexion feeling balanced, refreshed and deeply nourished.

Repair & Restore

LED Light Therapy targets multiple skin concerns at once to help strengthen and restore the skin.

Red light helps stimulate collagen to improve firmness and soften the appearance of fine lines, while blue light helps reduce breakouts and congestion. Near-infrared light works deeper within the skin to support repair and reduce inflammation, helping reveal a clearer, healthier-looking complexion.

Cool, Calm & Refresh

Cryotherapy delivers an instant cooling effect to help calm redness, reduce puffiness and tighten pores. The skin feels refreshed, smoother and revitalised, while the complexion appears brighter and more refined.

The Ultimate Glow Finish

To complete the treatment, Oxygen Therapy helps energise and deeply hydrate the skin while enhancing the absorption of targeted serums. The result is a complexion that looks plump, radiant and healthy, with superficial lines softened and skin visibly glowing.

No two skins are the same, which is why every ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial at Galgorm is expertly tailored to individual skin concerns, whether the focus is lifting and firming, calming and hydration, or achieving a brighter, more radiant complexion.

Combining advanced skincare technology with hands-on expertise, the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial delivers visible, long lasting results for skin that looks refreshed, sculpted and revitalised.

Discover the next generation of skincare with the ELEMIS BIOTEC Facial at Galgorm.

The Staysure Legends Tour welcomed professionals, sporting personalities, special guests and media to Galgorm today for a Par 3 Challenge against the clock as preparations continue for this summer’s NI Legends tournament that takes place at the same venue from September 4th – 6th, 2026.

Home players from the Staysure Legends Tour, Gary Murphy, Damian Mooney and Cameron Clark, led the teams alongside local celebrities and sporting heroes.

Teams of three took to the signature par-three 7th hole on the championship Castle Course at Galgorm to try and make as many pars as possible within their five-minute window. The professionals hit the tee shots before other team members gathered around the green to play alternate shots as they tried to beat the clock.

Former Northern Ireland internationals Keith Gillespie, John O’Neill, Jim Magilton, Tommy Wright, George McCartney and Steven Penney were present alongside former Ulster rugby star Ian Humphreys. Galgorm’s own icon Liam Beckett put local knowledge to good use along with UTV’s Ruth Gorman and BBC NI’s Stephen Watson.

In the end it was the team of Clark, O’Neill and Wright that came out on top after a tense play-off, beating Mooney’s team of Galgorm experts, Beckett and Penney with an impressive tally of seven pars in sudden death.

As the May heatwave continues, Galgorm provided a morning of fun as player interviews, filming and content creation gave a flavour of what’s to come during tournament week in September.

Clark, who was born in Ballymena, was excited to return to his hometown. “I was born at the Cottage Hospital here and my dad was Head Pro at Ballymena golf club so it’s wonderful to be back here. It’s the first thing I looked for on the schedule and I’m so excited to be coming back with the family for the tournament in September. It’s going to be a special week.

Today has been really good fun. Obviously, I’ve known Murph and Damian for a long time and it was great to have the footballers and the sports people involved. I really enjoyed it and it was great to get the win!”

Murphy added: “I'm a big fan of Galgorm. My first experience here was with a microphone commentating and I thought the course looked pretty easy. And then when I got the clubs out, I realised it wasn't. It's a really good test of golf and last year, even though the weather was so inclement, the course held up extremely well. It tests all parts of your game and really looking forward to the challenge again this year. “

Mooney added: “It’s a great venue for a tournament and spectators coming for free will be able to watch the feature holes and then the stadium finish. It's a fabulous 18th hole, with the water protecting the left side of the green and a grandstand so people see plenty. There will be plenty of big names to enjoy watching, names that people recognise from the main Tour, so it’s going to be an exciting week in September for sure.”

The NI Legends is set to attract another world-class field featuring Major champions, Ryder Cup legends and Tour winners, with some of the biggest names in senior professional golf lined up to return to Northern Ireland as part of the Staysure Legends Tour’s international schedule. Tickets for the NI Legends in September are free. Register to attend

HERE.

In 2025 Austria’s Markus Brier produced a composed final round performance in difficult conditions to secure victory by two shots over Sweden’s Mikael Lundberg, claiming his first Staysure Legends Tour title since 2021. Brier is in line to defend his NI Legends title at Galgorm in September.

Galgorm is recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s premier tournament venues and this year’s NI Legends event will mark the 21st professional event staged there since 2010. Galgorm previously hosted the Irish Open on the DP World Tour (2020), four World Invitationals (2019, 2021-23), a tri-sanctioned event between the DP World Tour, LPGA and LET. The Ballymena venue also hosted the homegrown NI Open on the Hotel Planner Tour for years.

Alongside the championship action, the NI Legends provides amateur golfers a unique opportunity to be inside the ropes and play alongside Ryder Cup legends, Major champions and Tour winners in the Pro-Am or as part of the Legends Experience during tournament rounds. For more information on playing experiences and ticketing, visit

HERE

“We are delighted the NI Legends is returning to Galgorm in September, and today’s Par 3 Challenge was great fun and a great way to launch the 2026 event,” said Ross Oliver, Director of Golf at Galgorm. “Galgorm has a rich pedigree of tournament golf over the years, and we look forward to working with the Staysure Legends Tour once more.

“The Pro-Am format on the Staysure Legends Tour lends itself so well to enhanced player experiences, both for the professionals and amateurs. Tournament week is like a festival of golf, especially when spectators can come and watch household names, former Major winners and Ryder Cup players for free.”   

Further tournament details and player announcements for this year’s NI Legends at Galgorm will be announced in the coming weeks.

Extended Three- Year Partnership with Galgorm Collection

Netball Northern Ireland (Netball NI) is delighted to announce the extension of its partnership with Galgorm Collection, confirming a renewed three‑year agreement that reinforces a shared commitment to supporting local sport, community wellbeing and meaningful member engagement.

A valued supporter of Netball NI since 2022, Galgorm Collection continues to lead the way in its support of local sport. This extended collaboration builds on a strong and trusted relationship, united by a belief in the positive impact that sport and active lifestyles have across Northern Ireland.

The renewed alliance will ensure that Clubs have the resources necessary to operate effectively and will also continue to support Netball NI’s delivery of educational programmes and pathways at every level of the sport, from grassroots participation through to performance environments.

In addition, funding will support training costs for the National team known as the Warriors, as they prepare for a busy international calendar of fixtures including the Commonwealth Games, which are currently taking place in Glasgow. The Warriors are competing in Pool A alongside Australia, England, South Africa, Malawi and Tonga. The experienced team will also be hoping to make it to the World Cup, with qualifiers taking place later this year.

Karen Rollo‑Stewart, Chief Executive of Netball NI, welcomed the partnership extension, saying:

“We are incredibly proud to extend our partnership with Galgorm Collection, an organisation that has consistently demonstrated leadership in supporting local sport. Their long‑term commitment is invaluable to Netball NI and, importantly, delivers tangible benefits for our members including exclusive offers to promote players’ health and wellbeing. This partnership allows us to reward our netball community while continuing to invest in participation, development and performance across Northern Ireland.”

Galgorm Collection’s focus on excellence, wellbeing and community aligns strongly with Netball NI values, making the partnership a natural and impactful fit.

Georgie Briota, Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection, commented:

“As a major employer with a team of over 1,400 staff across Northern Ireland, we see every day how sport can impact both people and associations, showing that teamwork and commitment really do get results. We are delighted to extend our relationship with Netball NI and continue our support for a sports body that makes such a positive difference across communities. Netball NI’s focus on inclusion, development and empowering people through sport closely reflects our own values.

“We would like to wish them all the very best for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the Commonwealth Games, which they have qualified for on the last four occasions, and that is an amazing achievement. We’ll be behind them all the way.”

Netball NI looks forward to an exciting next chapter in this enduring partnership, continuing to work alongside Galgorm Collection to support the growth of netball and deliver meaningful benefits to its members.

Galgorm Collection is committed to supporting local communities which it does through charitable donations, educational partnerships and creative interactive initiatives for local schools and colleges, that showcase the wealth of careers in hospitality and inspire the next generation to take up one of the many rewarding roles in this sector.

The company is a major local employer and has dramatically scaled up its hospitality footprint and workforce over the last decade. As its growth continues, so does the company's unwavering commitment to both economic impact and community support.

The NI Legends event will return to Galgorm from September 4-6 as part of the new 2026 Staysure Legends Tour international schedule. Markus Brier is the defending champion after the Austrian defied the elements to complete his memorable win in 2025.

The world class over 50s senior tour has a brand new look for 2026 following the appointment of Staysure as the tour’s new title sponsor. The new Staysure Legends Tour has a new logo plus expanded international calendar with an exciting stop-off at Galgorm in September where it will be free entry for spectators.

The world class golf on show will include Ryder Cup captains, Major champions and proven Tour winners, alongside an exciting influx of new players. The Staysure Legends Tour continues to celebrate excellence built on experience and sustained performance at the highest level.

The Tour will also continue to offer amateur golfers the unique opportunity to play alongside legends of the game both in fun pro-am formats and competitive ‘tournament experience’ golf.

David Adams, Managing Director of the Staysure Legends Tour, said: “We’re incredibly excited to announce our 2026 schedule and to begin this new era as the Staysure Legends Tour. The breadth of the calendar, the quality of the venues and the global nature of the Tour reflect how far it has come. With tournaments across the UK and Ireland, Europe, America and Asia, encompassing three senior Majors and world-class destinations, 2026 promises to be a landmark season.”

Ryan Howsam, Chairman of both Staysure and the Staysure Legends Tour, added: “The Staysure Legends Tour represents the very best of the game’s experience and competitive spirit. Aligning Staysure with the Tour allows us to support a global sporting platform built on trust, quality and long-term ambition. The strengthened schedule and new identity reflect the direction of travel and the opportunities ahead.”

With a new title sponsor and events staged across the UK and Ireland, Europe, America, the Caribbean and Asia, the 2026 Staysure Legends Tour calendar underlines its truly global reach and growing international stature.

The season kicks off in February in Marbella, with a strong field at Aloha that includes home favourites José María Olazábal and Miguel Ángel Jiménez , before a return to Barbados at the end of April, where the Tour will visit the spectacular Apes Hill resort for a tournament hosted by Masters champion and 2006 Ryder Cup captain, Ian Woosnam.

The Legends Tour’s flagship event, the Staysure PGA Seniors Championship, will once again be hosted by another household name and former Ryder Cup captain - Colin Montgomerie – who will resume host duties at the magnificent Trump International Resort in Aberdeen. The August event will be the first professional tournament to be played on the New Course, marking a significant milestone for both the venue and Scottish golf.

Fans can also look forward to three prestigious Major championships on the 2026 schedule. The Major season will begin with the Senior PGA Championship in Florida in April, followed by the US Senior Open in Ohio in July, before culminating in the ISPS HANDA Senior Open at Gleneagles in Scotland. Hosted at the iconic 2014 Ryder Cup venue, Gleneagles offers a historic and fitting stage for one of the most celebrated championships in the senior game, reinforcing the Tour’s connection to the sport’s most storied venues.

Further highlights include a co-sanctioned PGA Tour Champions event in Portugal at the end of July that will see many global stars playing at the Els Club in Vilamoura.

The announcement follows an outstanding 2025 season, which saw Australian Scott Hend, a multiple-time winner on the DP World Tour and Asian Tour, claim the season-long Order of Merit title after a dominant year.

The year also saw a number of rookies coming into contention alongside established names, underlining the depth, competitiveness and evolving profile of the Tour. This included the likes of Ryder Cup stars Jamie Donaldson, Stephen Gallacher and David Howell, as well as established DP World Tour stalwarts Johan Edfors, Anthony Wall, David Drysdale and Steve Webster, as well as Darren Fichardt, who was crowned Barry Lane Rookie of the Year in 2025 after a stellar season competing on both the Legends Tour and the DP World Tour.

Further updates to the 2026 schedule will be confirmed in due course.

For the full schedule visit

www.legendstour.com

More information on the NI Legends and Playing Experiences

https://www.legendstour.com/tournament/black-desert-ni-legends-2026

When it comes to hosting a meeting that inspires productivity, the venue makes all the difference. Set within a stunning riverside resort in Northern Ireland, Galgorm blends professional excellence with luxury, comfort, and unforgettable surroundings. Here are five reasons why Galgorm should be top of your list for your next meeting, conference, or incentive trip.

1   State of the art meeting rooms & facilities

From intimate boardrooms to larger conference suites, Galgorm offers a variety of flexible meeting spaces equipped with modern audiovisual technology, high-speed Wi-Fi, and adaptable layouts. Whether you’re hosting a strategy session, leadership retreat, or a corporate incentive trip, everything is designed to run seamlessly and professionally. As a Resort, we are committed to working towards a sustainable future and are delighted to have achieved our Green Tourism and Green Meetings Gold awards.  Ask our team about our dedicated green practices for more sustainable meetings.

2  Exceptional food & hospitality

Meetings are better when the food is. Galgorm is renowned for its dining, offering thoughtfully curated menus using locally sourced ingredients where possible. From energising snacks to elegant post-meeting dinners, your delegates will be well looked after. Our dedicated event planners will be on hand in the lead up to your day to organise all the small details. On the day, our operational team will ensure everything goes smoothly.

3  A Setting That Inspires Clear Thinking

Galgorm Resort is located within lush parkland along the River Maine, offering a tranquil environment that instantly sets the tone for focused and creative discussions. Stepping away from busy city centres allows teams to think more clearly, collaborate more openly, and return refreshed. Galgorm resort is conveniently located, 40 minutes from Belfast city centre, 30 minutes from Belfast International Airport and 1 hour from Derry / Londonderry making it the perfect location for traveling delegates. 

4 In house team building & relaxation facilities 

One of the advantages of hosting you conference at Galgorm is what happens after the meeting. The award-winning Thermal Spa Village, championship golf course and beautifull riverside walks offer the perfect balance between business and relaxation. It's an ideal setting for team bonding, rewarding performance, or simply unwinding after a productive day. Galgorm partners with trusted local supplers to deliver authentic high-quality team-building experiences that showcase the very best of the region. From outdoor adventures and creatie challenges to tailored group experiences, every activity is thoughfuly designed to engage, motivate and inpsire. 

 
5 Overnight Luxury for Multi-Day Meetings

For residential meetings and incentive trips, Galgorm’s luxury accommodation ensures guests can stay on-site. No commuting, no logistics stress, just a smooth, immersive experience that allows meetings to flow naturally over multiple days. Galgorm Resort offers 201 luxurious accommodations, providing the ultimate convenience for conference delegates. Each room is thoughtfully designed to combine comfort and contemporary style, ensuring a relaxing stay before and after a productive day.  All overnight accommodation includes access to the Thermal Spa Village and a full Irish breakfast.

At Galgorm Resort, meetings become more than just agenda items and PowerPoint slides. They become experiences that motivate teams, strengthen relationships, and deliver real results. If you’re looking to elevate your next meeting, Galgorm offers a professional, luxurious, and inspiring setting.

Start planning your conference or event, contact our events team at

events@galgorm.com

Our son Matthew was nine this Christmas. He absolutely loves Christmas and wants everything to be perfect. When we told him and his older brother that we would be spending the holiday at a hotel instead of at home, he asked a worried question: “What if it’s not magical?”

We reassured him that if he didn’t like it, next year we would stay at home again. He needn’t have worried.

Within five minutes of arriving we were sitting down for festive afternoon tea, and within ten a magician was at our table performing coin tricks that left Matthew completely stunned. While Mummy and Daddy enjoyed a glass of mulled wine, Matthew was off exploring with his camera in one hand and his best friend Sneaky the toy elf in the other.

Every member of staff was wonderfully kind to him. They all happily posed for photos with Sneaky, and by the end of the stay Matthew had created a whole scrapbook of memories. The pianist even sat Sneaky on her lap while she played. The magician posed, management posed, and on Christmas Day he even managed to get a photo with the man in red himself.

At our incredible Christmas lunch, when Matthew asked for a picture, the manager offered to take him on a tour of the kitchen. Sneaky toasted marshmallows by the fire and even watched Elf in the Christmas cinema.

I could talk about our beautiful family room complete with its own Christmas tree. I could mention the Christmas Eve box with personalised gingerbread men, the key card, milk and carrot all prepared for Santa’s visit. I could talk about the thoughtful gifts chosen for the boys based on their interests rather than a generic grotto present. I could talk about the boys loving their Christmas Eve swim, and how the grown-ups found time for a festive cocktail in the Conservatory after a happily tiring Christmas Day.

But what I’d really like to talk about is a boy who smiled non-stop for the entire visit. On the drive home Matthew made me promise we would come back again next year and no one disagreed, especially not Sneaky!

Pupils from Ballymena Dance Academy are set to take centre stage next week to compete at the Dance World Cup 2026 in Dublin following a sponsorship boost from local hospitality group, Galgorm Collection. 

Known as the Olympics of dance and running from 8th – 18th July, the competition will see over 11,000 children and young people from 50 countries such as USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa, Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan, India and China competing for medals at Dublin’s Convention Centre. 

A total of 51 members of Ballymena Dance Academy, aged between 7 and 22 years old, will be taking part in the competition including eight groups representing Northern Ireland in lyrical, modern, contemporary, acro, showstopper and jazz genres.  

Committed to supporting initiatives that positively impact the community and boost opportunities to develop sporting talent, Galgorm Collection, alongside Logans Executive Travel, have part funded coaches to and from the venue as well as covering competition expenditure.

Speaking about the partnership, Lynsey Gordon, Chief Operating Officer at Galgorm Collection said: “Ballymena Dance Academy has an excellent reputation in the town and we’re delighted to support a group that is nurturing such talent locally and that is clearly amongst some of the best dance troupes in the world which is certainly no small feat. 

“At Galgorm Collection, investing in sporting talent and strengthening our community is at the heart of everything we do. As local employers, we see first-hand the benefits that sport can have on our team and thus, it’s something we’re committed to supporting. 

“I’d like to take this opportunity to wish Ballymena Dance Academy the very best of luck for the competition.” 

The partnership with Ballymena Dance Academy forms part of Galgorm Collection’s wider community engagement programme, which includes sponsorships, charitable initiatives, educational projects and ongoing collaboration with schools, clubs and organisations across Northern Ireland. 

Meanwhile, choreographer Kara McCartney, owner of Ballymena Dance Academy added: “The support we have received from Galgorm Collection means so much to us as a group. Since qualifying for the Dance World Cup in January, the children and young people have been working very hard over the last few months to perfect their performances and we’re really keen to show the judging panel just what we can do. 

“For many of the children and young people, it will be their first experience of competing on a world stage as part of such a prestigious competition and the lessons they will learn from it will be very valuable.  We’re so grateful to the team at Galgorm Collection for their assistance and look forward to making them all proud during the competition over the next two weeks.” 

With a portfolio of hotels, resorts, restaurants and golf experiences across the province, Galgorm Collection remains committed to delivering positive economic and social impact alongside its continued growth, supporting initiatives that promote wellbeing, youth development and community participation. 

ELEMIS Brings its iconic Skin Spa Airstream to Ireland for the first time – Hosted Exclusively at Galgorm

Luxury skincare brand ELEMIS visits Ireland this August as its iconic Skin Spa Airstream arrives in Ireland for the very first time. The award-winning Galgorm will host this exclusive pop-up experience from Wednesday 27th to Sunday 31st August, marking a major milestone for beauty and wellness fans across the island.

Fresh from a high-profile appearance at the British Grand Prix, the ELEMIS Skin Spa Airstream will make a special pit stop at Galgorm to coincide with the Black Desert NI Legends Event. The activation will bring ELEMIS’ renowned high-tech, high-touch expertise to guests in a unique, luxury mobile spa setting - all against the vibrant backdrop of championship golf.

Visitors will have the chance to step inside the sleek Airstream and enjoy:

Expert Skin Analysis: Using a HD Skin Diagnostic Camera to analyse your complexion’s unique needs, an ELEMIS Skin Specialist will create a personalised skincare prescription.

Express Touch Treatment: Combining expert touch with innovative skincare and CryoGlobes to calm and sculpt, this facial will leave you feeling instantly revitalised.

Express Tech Treatment: This restorative treatment includes high-tech LED light therapy while binaural sound frequencies are played through headphones to relax and rejuvenate.

Each 15-minute treatment is priced at £25 and fully redeemable against any product purchase on the day, giving guests the perfect opportunity to try and take home their ideal ELEMIS products.

With over 30 years of expertise, ELEMIS blends the best of science, nature, and skin wisdom, delivering visible results for millions of clients worldwide. In 2023, the brand achieved B Corp certification, highlighting its dedication to using business as a force for good.

“This is the first time the ELEMIS Skin Spa Airstream has visited Ireland, and we are thrilled to be hosting it here at Galgorm,” said Tara Moore, Head of Spa Operations at Galgorm Collection.  “It’s an unforgettable way for guests to experience world-class skincare in an entirely new setting.”

Event Details:

Location: Galgorm, 200 Galgorm Rd, Ballymena BT42 1HL

Dates: Wednesday 27th – Sunday 31st August 2025

Times: 10am – 5pm daily

As we approach World Wellness Weekend this September, Leigh Heggarty Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection discusses her take on the importance of incorporating wellness into your next event.

Wellness isn’t just the latest buzz word or workplace initiative, it’s a lifestyle choice.

More than green juices or journaling, wellness is big business and a key focus for businesses aiming to engage and energise their teams. However, often we could be considered foolish for believing in the power of employee wellbeing in motivating staff, making them feel appreciated and willing to go that extra mile. But it is exactly this which is so often overlooked when there are one hundred and one other tasks vying for our attention when it comes to running a successful business. Unfortunately, the way in which many companies relate to corporate wellness is simply a box ticking exercise. That is often the sad reality.

In an age where working hours are longer and we are perpetually connected with the assistance of our greatest friend and enemy, our phones; often some well-deserved down-time can fall to the wayside. More often than not it’s the high-flying executives and CEO’s, who often struggle to find the time to unplug themselves from their hectic work schedules.

When it comes to work, while conferences and work retreats offers great opportunities to network, share expertise and gain more from leaders in the field, they can also be a pressurised environments and not best suited to all employees. Conditions like depression and social anxiety can make a busy setting, filled with new faces and noise a real challenge for some people. Even if mental health has never been an issue, a long awaited or important work event can be overwhelming.

Incorporating practices and initiatives into our personal and professional lives that prioritise wellbeing is imperative in cultivating a balanced lifestyle, helping us thrive in all aspects of life. Understanding the pressures that can be affecting your team and recompensing employees for their dedication is an effective means of increasing staff morale and performance. This need not be challenging. Establishing workplace wellness initiatives in your organization is just one way to achieve this.

Wellbeing activities be it in the office or at a conference aren’t just a nice-to have. Not when workplace wellbeing is a concern for every industry. It is astounding the volume of working days that are lost in the UK every year due to stress, depression and anxiety and many leading companies are now making employee wellness and engagement a priority. It’s no secret that when a company has a mental health focused culture, they’ll be more engaged, productive, innovative, creative and loyal. Who wouldn’t want that!

Wellness initiatives at events can improve your attendees’ mood, making them happier and more open to new ideas and experiences. Of course, these ideas aren’t just for your events and attendees. You can also use them for your next team get-together to boost their morale, improve team-bonding, and help them unwind after a hectic event. After all, your event is only as good as your team.

Incorporating wellness into your conference doesn’t mean daily group meditation sessions, or eating your body weight in granola, it’s just small steps to help improve the work environment. It could be something as simple as taking some activities outdoors or moving dinner outside.

At Galgorm Resort we introduced the opportunity to create a Mindful Meeting for your delegates. Mindful Meetings promote the wellbeing of your colleagues, allowing them the ability to fully engage and learn from your event by incorporating a selection of experiences from Movement Breakout Sessions and Mindful breathing techniques to calm the mind & body to hot towels infused with oils designed to energise during breaks. This followed by a bespoke Spa Programme for some of our recent Incentive Groups has received such positive feedback.

Galgorm is an ideal setting to reenergise and embark on your workplace wellbeing journey, boasting an idyllic, tranquil setting with unique 6 acre Thermal Spa Village, the first of its kind in Ireland. Idyllically located on the banks of the River Maine, you and your team can immerse yourselves in nature and experience pure relaxation with an extensive selection of riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor heated pools, steam rooms and saunas.

Galgorm Resort’s emphasis on relaxation and escape from daily pressures align with the importance of work-life balance. Employees who feel their organization values their personal lives are more likely to be satisfied and perform better at work.

While a Spa Experience may not necessarily spark excitement amongst all your employees, there is so much more they an avail of. Encourage your delegates to reconnect with nature with a guided forage through the grounds of the Resort, with a food, drink or spa Foraging Experience or participate in a private Falconry experience on the Estate with a close and personal encounter with some of natures most beautiful birds of prey. There really is something to suit everyone.

Workplace wellbeing is no longer an optional consideration for organisations; it’s a critical factor that affects productivity, employee satisfaction and the bottom line. The link to Galgorm underscores the tangible benefits of prioritizing wellbeing in the workplace. By embracing a holistic approach to employee health, organisations can not only thrive but also contribute to the overall wellbeing of their employees, creating a win-win scenario for everyone involved. Galgorm Resort can design a corporate wellness package that is tailored specifically to the individual requirements of your team be it a conference, an incentive programme or an Exec Retreat.

Legendary Northern Ireland footballers who play golf will be hitting the fairways at Galgorm later this month in a celebrity Pro-Am competition.

The Legends Tour, formerly known as the European Senior Tour, is set to make its Northern Ireland debut at Galgorm’s Championship Castle Course from August 27-31, 2025. As part of the build-up to the tournament a team featuring nine Northern football legends will be competing against a team of sports and media legends in a celebrity pro-am and for the Galgorm Legends Cup on Wednesday 27 August.

The Northern Ireland team is shaping up to include the likes of Steven Davis, Stuart Dallas, Chris Brunt, Aaron Hughes, Jim Magilton, Tommy Wright and Gareth McAuley. The squad of sports and media legends is set to feature champion jockey Tony McCoy, actor Jimmy Nesbitt, former Ulster Rugby star Ian Humphreys, former Scotland and Lions rugby player Kenny Logan, radio presenter Pete Snodden, UTV sports reporter Ruth Gorman, ex-Manchester United winger Lee Sharpe plus GAA legends Sambo McNaughton and Oisin McConville, while former Newcastle United and Manchester City keeper Shay Given and World Superbikes star Jonny Rea could be late call-ups.

The two celebrity teams will play alongside legends of the fairways, including former Masters winner and world number one Ian Woosnam and a stellar field that includes Ryder Cup players and multiple tour winners such as Stephen Gallacher, David Howell, Peter Baker and Jean Van de Velde. The celebrity teams will be competing for the Galgorm Legends Cup and will compete in a team scramble format. Each team will have three fourballs, with nine Northern Ireland football legends and nine sports and media legends in each team. The winners of the Galgorm Legends Cup will have the lowest combined fourball scores.

The star-studded pro-am is open to the public. Tickets start from just £12.50 and children under 16 go free. Spectators are welcome. Tickets can be purchased

HERE. 

This month’s Black Desert NI Legends event will be the 20th professional tournament held at the venue near Ballymena.

Photo credit:Irish FA and Press Eye 

We haven’t stopped talking about what an amazing time we have had.

My mum and I where heading away to spend our first Christmas without my dad - I was so worried about her and for the first time in my life she didn’t put Christmas decorations up at the house. From the moment we arrived she smiled - she laughed and I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas. Her Christmas Day was made with a ride in a Bentley for lunch.

Your staff deserve everything. Tracey the door person, the driver, the server Conor, Stephen who dealt with the reservation in fact all off you!

I can not express how much you made our Christmas. Thank you!

NI Hospitality School extends partnership with three of the region’s top hotels to facilitate new training academy with guaranteed employment for six newly qualified chefs.

Aspiring chefs to step up to the plate with launch of new NI Chef Academy

NI Hospitality School extends partnership with three of the region’s top hotels to facilitate new training academy with guaranteed employment for six newly qualified chefs.

Aspiring chefs are being called to step up to the plate and enroll on a brand new training course, launched today by the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, offering students the chance to gain a chef qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.

The brand new Chef Academy will see six successful candidates selected to undertake a year-long scholarship delivered through on-the-job training at one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels; Adair Arms Hotel, Galgorm Resort or Tullyglass House Hotel, where they will ultimately secure guaranteed employment.

Successful candidates will gain a nationally recognised qualification (FDQ Level 2 Diploma in Professional Chef - Northern Ireland), delivered by training partner South Eastern Regional College (SERC). The course involves not just classroom learning, but on the job training with our highly skilled kitchen brigade as well as unique experiences with our local food producers.

Representing an investment in year one of nearly £250,000 the new academy aims to recruit six locally based chef apprentices for its first intake in September, with applications now open.

The announcement follows the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School last April, part funded by Ballymena-based charity The Gallaher Trust. To date, the school has already supported 24 students in gaining full-time employment with partnering hotels through its dedicated Bar Academy.

The launch of its new Chef Academy is the latest development in the school’s ambitious plans to support the hospitality sector locally and provide a pathway to employment for those seeking a career in the industry. Each year, the NI Hospitality School aims to facilitate employment for six chefs and 24 bartenders in a £685,000 annual investment, providing a significant boost to local employment.