Celtic Cup, Newry Canal, October 2023

Drone footage commissioned by the Loughs Agency showcasing the coarse angling facility at the Albert Basin, Newry taken during the Celtic Cup angling championship.
In support of new talent, the competition provided the opportunity to experience team fishing to international rule including juniors and women. Ireland's under 18's shone holding their own against the seniors with top angling from our female anglers, Deimante Karaliunaite and Mary Tigwell.
As the roach moved along the sections on day one the fishing was excellent with the catches of roach averaging 5kg per angler. Team Ireland 'A' won the day with 11.5 points, followed closely by Team Scotland ' Blue' 13 points, and Ireland 'B' and Scotland 'White' both with 14 points. Day two started with the first frost of the season and bright sunshine with the fishing much harder on a flat calm canal. It was a better day for Team Wales and the 'Red' team finished with 11 points for a total 26 points, taking second position from Team Scotland 'Blue' but not enough to beat the excellent performance from the Ireland 'A' Team. A players Johnny Bailey, Phil Hartin, Caolan King and Robbie Smithers earnt 8.5 points for an overall 20 points to win the title!
Individually Phil Hartin, Ireland and Matt Powell, Wales both finished with a perfect 2-point score with the former winning on weight. Ireland's Mary Tigwell took third position for her overall 4 points, winning the match overall on day one with 9.125kg.
A total of 29 anglers and their managers spent four days fishing on the canal, including two days practice and preparation hosted by the National Coarse Fishing Federation of Ireland, NCFFI with permissions from Newry, Mourne & Down Council and sponsorship from the Loughs Agency. The weeklong trip saw the visiting teams from Scotland and Wales enjoy the hospitality of the Canal Court Hotel and a dinner on Saturday night with the kind compliments of the NEWRY BID (Business Improvement District).