The 2007 Irish championship featured the largest field ever, 52 players, including 4 grandmasters, a major turnaround from the previous year’s turnout of just 12. The primary factor in the change was generous sponsorship from Island Oil & Gas, and in addition the qualification requirements were the least restrictive ever, with the tournament open to non-Irish players and also to players rated below 1900; both features controversial.
A report is now up on the tournaments page. 1st-2nd GMs Mark Hebden and Nick Pert; joint Irish champions FM Stephen Brady and IM Brian Kelly (3rd-4th overall); 224/229 games.