Arklow Racquetball Club

43rd Irish Open & 40th Arklow Open – Tournament Report

The 43rd Irish Open and 40th Arklow Open proved to be a fantastic weekend of racquetball, with a huge turnout, high-quality matches, and a brilliant atmosphere throughout the event. Players travelled from across Ireland and beyond to compete, making it a truly memorable tournament for all involved.

There was no shortage of thrilling action across the grades. In the Men’s Open Singles, Johnny O’Keeney (Fermoy) came out on top in a gripping 5-game battle against Mark Murphy (Kilkenny), while in the Women’s Open Singles, Aisling Hickey (Rossmore) delivered a strong performance to defeat Arklow’s own Antonia Neary in straight sets.

Arklow had plenty to celebrate across the weekend, with standout performances from Joseph Farrell, who claimed the Men’s B Singles title in dominant fashion, and Paddy Dodd, who secured victory in the Men’s C/D Singles. Tyler Young also impressed, winning the Men’s Novice Singles, and we are delighted to announce that this marks Tyler’s well-earned promotion out of the novice grade. A brilliant achievement and very well deserved.

Other notable winners included Daniel White (North Sligo) in the Men’s Novice B Singles, Robert Weber (USA) in a tightly contested Men’s 40+ final, Noel O’Callaghan (Fermoy) in the Men’s 50+, and Billy Walsh (Kilkenny) in the Men’s 60+.

The Junior final was an all-Arklow affair, with George Foley edging out Chris Neary in a thrilling 5-game match. George also went on to claim victory in the Men’s Novice Doubles alongside Ray Kehoe.

In doubles action, Johnny O’Keeney and Mark Murphy combined to win the Men’s Open Doubles after another 5-game classic, while Billy Walsh and Don Lawlor took the Men’s C/D Doubles title.

Off the court, the club was proud to host a civic reception to welcome three visiting international players,Robert Weber, Kelly Gremley, and Jessica Wei, whose presence added greatly to the tournament.

A special mention must go to Liam Og Cooke (Cavan), who was awarded the Michael Barnes Sportsperson of the Tournament Award, recognising not only his performances on court but his outstanding sportsmanship, attitude, and willingness to support others throughout the weekend.

We were also delighted to honour Mick Cunningham, who was formally inducted into the Racquetball Association Hall of Fame in recognition of his years of dedication, commitment, and invaluable contribution to the sport.

Finally, a massive thank you to all of our committee members whose hard work and organisation made the tournament such a success, as well as to our generous sponsors for their continued support. Events like this simply wouldn’t be possible without you.

Arklow Racquetball Club Irish Open.
This national event has been running for decades and provides a huge tourism boost for Arklow and South Wicklow.

Day 2 - Finals Day at the Arklow Irish Open - Tune in now 💪🏼

Court 2

Arklow Racquetball Club 40th Arklow Open Saturday Court 2