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Cork to Host International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament in 2020

Cork to Host International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament in 2020

Monday 14 May 2018

The third (3rd) International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament (IMART) will be held in Cork in 2020. 

IMART is the world cup for Mixed Ability Rugby Clubs, and it is the only international event where people of all abilities play together in the same un-adapted full-contact rugby union game abiding by World Rugby Laws.

The Mixed Ability Model encourages social inclusion by removing barriers to participation for people who feel unable to join mainstream clubs or groups due to physical or mental health issues, size, shape, age, disability, prolonged inactivity, or a perception of 'not being good enough'. 

Cork hosting this international event is a really important achievement for Ireland, for the city and county of Cork and for Sunday’s Well Rugby Football Club (RFC). Sunday's Well RFC has a leading role in advocating for Mixed Ability rugby. IMART 2020 will attract in the region of 750 participants from all over the world for the week-long competition in 2020.

Sunday’s Well Rugby Football Club, who coordinated Cork’s bid, are thrilled that IMART 2020 will bring together some of the finest Mixed Ability rugby teams in the world, but it’s important to note that there is a significant educational aspect to this event also. A conference featuring internationally known speakers will present their studies, research and analysis of the benefits of Mixed Ability rugby and the challenges of introducing Mixed Ability sports across many disciplines.

Liam Maher of Sunday’s Well Rugby Club and also Chair of the Organising Committee said, “We’re exceptionally proud that Cork has been chosen to host IMART 2020. That decision, I think is in part due to Ireland’s international reputation as a rugby powerhouse but it also has much to do with our own growing reputation in mixed ability sport. Mixed ability is about valuing everyone’s potential and celebrating what’s at the heart of true sport - participation, passion and fun!”