Irish Open 2007

The Official Opening
Minister Tom Kit was the guest of honour this year at the opening. Within his speech he noted the importance of Martial Arts in developing a positive and healthy community, he also noted the incredible spectacle which the Irish Open has become with over 2000 competitor from 27 countries, he thanked the organising committee and all the volunteers and commended IMAC on its continued work for Martial Arts in Ireland. Suzanne.O'Reilly from The Chosen Charity for this years event The Irish Society for The prevention of Cruelty to Children, thanked everybody for attending and supporting the charity, she said they where delighted to be once again associated with the Irish Open international and commented on how important the values of children can be enshrined within the Martial Arts. Roy Baker, the tournament coordinator thanked all attending and said it was wonderful to see so many faces from around the world working together. Roy asked everybody to stand for one minute silence in respect to the Cashman family who sadly lost their mother/wife last October when they where attending the WAKO European Championships in Portugal. The sudden death had greatly affected all the English team and many of the Irish Team who are closely associated with the Cashman family.

Roy presented, well know kickboxing promoter and black belt Nevil Wray from England with his sixth degree black belt in Kickboxing on behalf og WAKO GB. In recognition for his tireless work and contribution to the development of kickboxing in England and world wide.

Forms grand Champion

The three finalists selected from the preliminary eliminations held on Saturday night at the night time show for the Forms final held at the opening ceremony in from of 2500 fighters and 1000 spectators. Chloe Bruce, England Jason Bournley Tankson, USA and Chris Walker, USA were all clear finalists. First Up was USA Chris Walker, who gave an amazing display of strength and technique and some funny hip movements that wowed the crowd, you will have to go on to the irish Open web site to see what I mean. Second Up the talented Jason Bournley Tabkson who agai showed how he is one of the most talented martial Artists on the circuit today, withi his hig degree of proficiency in forms, kicks and fighting. Finally it was the amazing Chloe Bruce, who was back on form, showing incredible ability nad strength in giving a flawless performance with grace nad poise and deservedly being crowned the grand champion of the 2007 irish Open.