The English pair of Habebul Islam and Bel Wardle also booked their places at the World Invitational after they finished second and leading female respectively in the NI Swing Series Order of Merit. All three can now look forward to a return visit to Galgorm in less than eight weeks to compete against some of the world’s best players.

Robinson-Thompson enjoyed a comfortable three stroke win in the end from Smith in second and a large chasing pack tied third on five-under, including Mitch Waite (79), Curtis Knipes (71), Cameron Raymond (68), Billy MacKenzie (67) and Bailey Gill (65).

Over the first two days Waite had been the player to catch after his sensational opening round of 10-under 60. The English professional backed it up with a second round 66 but ran out of steam and closed with a disappointing 79 to undo much of his earlier good work.

As for the winner’s final round, he raced to the turn in two under 32 with four birdies and two dropped shots. A further birdie came at the par five 10th and despite bogeys at 13 and 15, Robinson-Thompson closed with three pars for a comfortable win.

“It has been a great week and Brandon is a worthy winner who played some excellent golf,” said Ross Oliver, Director of Golf at Galgorm. “There’s no doubt we were challenged by the elements at certain stages during the week, but the championship course held up well and has been in fantastic condition for the tournament. The recent course changes were very well received by all the players, especially the changes on the back nine and at the ninth where we extended the lake which now comes out in front of the green. We look forward to welcoming back all three players who booked their places to compete in the ISPS HANDA World Invitational in August.”

The 2023 NI Open was part of a new NI Swing Series sponsored by Golf Carts Europe where three events across Northern Ireland over a 10-day period took place. A total prize fund of £165,000 was available through the £60,000 NI Masters at Clandeboye Golf Club where Sam Broadhurst won, followed by the £5,000 NI Open Pro-am at Cairndhu Golf Club before concluding with the NI Open at Galgorm.