Hot on the ‘heels’ of Ulster securing a coveted place in the Heineken Cup quarter finals, the draw has taken place for the 33^rd annual Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit Tournament at Portadown RFC.

The very popular Tournament kicks off on8^th February and will see talented Under 19 players from 15 Clubs play every Wednesday evening at Chambers Park, Portadown, in a bid to lift the prestigious trophy on 2^nd May 2012. This year’s eagerly anticipated fixtures were drawn by Lawrence Caldwell, President of Ulster Branch (IRFU) and promise to make exciting viewing for all rugby supporters, with perhaps one or two piquancy matches as tournament hosts Portadown meet Ballynahinch  in the first round and last year’s victors Armagh Monaghan meet Instonians.

Laurence Caldwell, President Ulster Branch (IRFU) explains,

“We are very grateful to Irwin’s Bakery for their contribution to Ulster rugby over the years. Credit must also go to Portadown Rugby Club, who do a fantastic job hosting this event every year.  The Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit Tournament is very valuable in terms of providing our young players with exciting and competitive games. Many Ulster players, past and present, have been involved in this competition and I’m sure some of this year’s participants will go on to play at a very high level.”

Brian Irwin, executive chairman of Irwin’s Bakery, who has been primary sponsor of the Tournament since 1979 commented,

“This is the 33^rd year of the annual Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit Tournament and we expect it to be as well contested and captivating as ever. The Tournament provides a unique platform for Ulster’s youth rugby elite to show off their skills in a competitive environment, against the best clubs in Ulster. Irwin’s has a long standing record of supporting grassroots sports development in Northern Ireland across a range of sports and as the Bakery reaches its centenary this year we would like to continue this support and see the Tournament, which has become iconic in rugby circles, being played for another 100 years. I would also like to thank the organisers and officials who dedicate their time every week to the successful running of the Tournament – without their support this would not be possible.”

“Irwin’s Bakery would like to encourage all the family to come along and join us at Chambers Park every Wednesday at 7.45pm and enjoy a fun filled evening of rugby.” 

Pictured (L-R) Brian Irwin, executive chairman of sponsors, Irwin's Bakery, Darryl Callaghan, Talent Identification Manager, Ulster Rugby, Laurence Caldwell, Ulster Branch president (IRFU), Bobby Stewart, chairman of Ulster Branch Youth Committee and Hendrik Kruger, Age Grade Manager (IRFU).