One thing the Martial Arts tournament scene greatly lacks is coverage on national TV and Satellite. Each year the Irish Open has continued to attract TV crews for around the world. This year we where delighted to be broadcast on Setanta Sports, which is broadcast across Europe. The event was also covered by RTE (OB Sport). The continued involvement of TV media in this sport is vital to the continued growth of the sport and development of sponsorship.
DVD
Something that has been long overdue is a professionally produced DVD outlining the highs and lows of the Irish Open, this DVD is being produced and will be available to buy by mid May. All proceeds from this DVD will be donated to the ISPCC.
Volunteers
An event like the Irish open can only continue to evolve and improve with the dedication and support of a vast volunteer group who give of their time, freely in support of the sport and a very worthy charity, the ISPCC. 155 volunteers worked tirelessly for three days supporting the fighters, organisers and harity a big thank you must go out to all of them.
Referees
One has to think about the huge logistics of running twelve areas for two days without interruption. It is a huge feat and one that could not be accomplished without the continued support of referees from Ireland and around the world. 75 referees worked tirelessly for two days ensuring the rules and safety of the fighter was the main priority of the day. Each ring had five referees assigned to it with one chief referee. Roy baker, Thank all the referees that helped out and received the unique and coveted Irish Open referees shirt.
Overview Well each year the committee say to themselves how do we top this. Can it be topped. The addition of two fighting areas making a total of twelve without question assisted the smoother running and timely running of the event. The improved catering facilities also helped making sure spectator, fighter, volunteer and official had a good selection to choose from for refreshment. Pre booked transportation to and from the hotels definitely helped. But like always the committee are looking at further improving the event for 2008, wherever possible. Some of the ideas are, Team event on Friday Evening. Black Belt Divisions up to Quarter Finals on Saturday. This would all significantly assist the smooth and timely running of the largest martial Arts tournament in the world today. In the end the continued success of the Irish open is due to people from all over the world working together for a chosen charity and testing their skills against fellow Martial Artists on a non political playing field, something quite unique in today’s world. Long may it continue.
2008 Date Confirmed
The dates for the 2008 Irish Open have been fully confirmed. The Irish Open will be on 1/2nd March 2008, go to www.irishopenonline.com for pictures, results, story and streamed video, get a glimpse of the unique energy and excitement only the Irish Open International can provide to fighter, spectator, referee and officials worldwide.
