Kingspan Chosen As Title Sponsor Of Under-19 World Championship
Leading building materials manufacturer Kingspan Group plc has been appointed as the title sponsor of the 2007 IRB Under-19 World Championship, which takes place in Belfast and Bangor between April 4 and 21.
IRFU President Peter Boyle, Ireland senior captain Brian O’Driscoll and Tom McGuinness, Kingspan’s Divisional Commercial Director, were on hand at a press conference in Dublin on Tuesday to help make the announcement.
IRB Tournaments Manager Simon Jelowitz confirmed: “The International Rugby Board is delighted to welcome Kingspan as the title sponsor of the 2007 IRB Under-19 World Championship. The appointment of a leading player in the building materials industry further highlights the significant attraction and prestige of the tournament as a major event on the global rugby calendar.
“The significant number of travelling supporters can look forward to exciting matches, superb host venues, ticket prices that start at just STG£2 and wonderful local hospitality. It will be an event not to be missed and the IRB looks forward to welcoming supporters from Ireland and all over the world to the tournament.”
Over 700 players from 24 nations will compete in the competition which will give rugby’s rising talent exposure to competitive tournament conditions and also offer fans an excellent opportunity to see the next generation of international rugby stars.
Last year’s tournament, held in Dubai, was won by Australia and received broadcast coverage in over 70 countries through 16 worldwide broadcasters.
Peter Boyle said of the sponsorship announcement: “It is entirely appropriate that Kingspan, as a major player in their field, should be associated with one of the largest tournaments in world rugby and I have no doubt that their backing will go a long way to making this year’s tournament one of the best ever.”
Kingspan Group plc, headquartered in Ireland, is a leading manufacturer of an integrated range of products for the construction industry. Sponsorship of the tournament also continues Kingspan’s strong affiliation with sport including sponsorship of Cavan GAA and Irish Motorsport.
“The strength and power of the Kingspan brand is a good fit with the sport of rugby and the Kingspan brand is growing in strength in markets including Australia and New Zealand where interest in the sport is strong. In addition, as an Irish company, we were delighted to support a Tournament hosted by the IRFU,” commented Tom McGuinness.