Northern Ireland Open Judo Open is back at the Foyle Arena

Launching the 2024 NI Judo Open at the Foyle Arena are, from left, Russell Brown (Chair NI Judo), Marc McLaughlin (Sales Director SmartPay NI) and Leisure and Sport Operations Manager at DCSDC Steve Setterfield.

An international field of judoka from across the UK and Europe will join the cream of local players when the Northern Ireland Judo Open returns to the Foyle Arena next month on Saturday 12th and Sunday April 13th.

The tournament, which has a new sponsor for 2025 in the form of SmartPayNI, will see hundreds of judoka descend on the Waterside venue. SmartPayNI deliver payment solutions to businesses and have added the capability to pay by card for those attending this year’s tournament. Excitement is building for the Open already and Steve Setterfield, Area Leisure Manager for Derry City and Strabane District Council said they were delighted to again host the prestigious event. “The event has been a resounding success since the centre opened back in 2015 and it now forms an important part of our events calendar. “We would like to wish all the competitors the very best of luck. We’ll see you next month!" Russell Brown, Chairman for N. I. Judo added: “There’s always a buzz around the Open, the fact that competitors are looking to qualify for further events, the homegrown talent testing their mettle against those across the water and the high level of competition always draws excitement. “It’s fantastic to welcome SmartPayNI to the team this year, and we’d like to thank them for their input and support for the event.” Marc McLaughlin, Sales Director from SmartPayNI said: “SmartPayNI are proud to be sponsoring partners of the N. I. Judo Open we are always keen on supporting the growth of local sport.” The SmartPayNI Open is ready for entries, and you can find out more about the event here - https://www.nijudo.com/events/calendar To learn more out more about services at the Foyle Arena visit derrystrabaneleisure.com/foyle-arena email [email protected] or call 028 71 376555 and to find your nearest Judo club, log on to www.nijudo.com.