Published Wednesday, 27 June 2012
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A total of 27,000 people are expected to travel to Royal Portrush Golf Club on each day of the competition, which tees off on Thursday and runs to Sunday.
The weekend rounds were the first to sell out, followed by Friday - now the European Tour said it has ceased sales for the opening day, making it an unprecedented full sell-out.
In a statement, officials said: "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.
"The combination of the sell-out and one of the strongest fields on The European Tour Schedule has resulted in a Major-like atmosphere at the Co Antrim links course, even before a competitive ball has been struck."
Over 4,000 people attended the opening practice round watch golfers including local hero Rory McIlroy take to the Dunluce Links on Tuesday.
Then on Wednesday the Pro-Am was watched by a crowd of 14,225, as top celebrities competed against the professionals, adding an exciting dimension to the event.
Other Northern Irish golfers including Gareth Maybin and 2010 US Open Champion Graeme McDowell all appeared on the course in the morning.
Then in the afternoon, Open Champion Darren Clarke and McIlroy had their turn.
Padraig Harrington was joined by Rathmore member and new British Amateur Champion Alan Dunbar.
Gareth Maybin was joined by former Ulster rugby star Bryn Cunningham.
Rugby star Rory Best will also took part after returning from three weeks in New Zealand.
Speaking ahead of the event, Graeme McDowell said he was anticipating a fun day ahead of the start of the Irish Open on Thursday.
"It's going to be a lot of fun, obviously I'm playing with my little brother and Billy Murray who's also playing with his little brother," he said.
"I've met Bill a few times via T&T, Pebble Beach, Pro-Ams, Dunhill Links and he's just a great sport. I think the people will have a lot of fun watching us."
"The weather's okay right now, the forecast is pretty bad but we'll just hope Mother Nature kinda shines on this week.
"It's fun to be back in Portrush and playing in front of home fans. The course is in great shape, best I've seen it in a long time and I'm excited for a good weekend.
"We're all very proud as Northern Irish to take this event to Portrush and hopefully we can put on a good show."
But with play at the competition proper due to start, the European Tour has reminded fans that no more tickets will be available.
The statement added: "We urge spectators not to arrive at the gate in hope of purchasing tickets, as there will be no further sales for the 2012 Irish Open."