The Northern Ireland Closed Championships took place on the 24th of March in the Foyle Arena, and with a solid entry of competitors from across the province, the day was set to be a great day of Judo.
The event which focused on the Cadets, Juniors, Seniors, and Masters started with the Masters section and with a good entry of players, it was strong competition across the pools with great camaraderie and spirit.
This then followed with the Cadet entry, and from what we could see of the standard of Judo the future looks bright for the younger Judoka across Northern Ireland.
The Juniors and Seniors took to the Tatami after the lunch break and with pools of six or seven, there were no shortages of great contests out on the mats with the players giving it their all to become the Northern Ireland Closed Champion.
Russell Brown, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Judo Federation said:
“Not only was there a high level of competitive Judo on display, but there was also a high level of sporting courtesy and respect which Judo is about.
Players were exemplary in their conduct and watching some of the contests, it’s clear to see how hard they have all been working back in the clubs.
I’d like to congratulate everyone for stepping on to the competition mats and praise you all for your efforts.
I’d also like to thank the team behind the event and offer my praise to them, for how well it ran.
Our Pathway players featured highly in the medallists and to see this is testament to the process and hard work that they have been undertaking under the vision of Stephen McCluskey.
With the Open on the horizon, I’m hopeful of a solid entry from the home nation to show our skills on the wider stage.”
In early March the Irish Intervarsity’s were also staged in the Foyle Arena with a team from the NIJF events and officials playing a major role in the execution of the event.
An extended congratulations goes to Emma McCann, Fintan Darragh and the technical wizardry of Adam McConnell for what was a great success for University Judo.
(Photos with thanks to Martin Stroganof)