The IRFU Ulster Branch and Ulster Rugby hosted the IRB Under 19 World Championship in Belfast and Bangor from 4th - 21st April 2007.

Twenty-four of the world's best U19 teams participated in the tournament which was broadcast live in over 80 countries around the world, showcasing Northern Ireland, it's rugby traditions and it's people to an international audience.

Over 700 players and 250 coaches & officials were resident in Northern Ireland for over three weeks, and as well as preparing for some of the biggest rugby matches of their lives, they made the most of the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture and enjoyed some of the hospitality Northern Ireland is famous for.

Coming into the tournament Australia were the current holders of the trophy, however it was to be New Zealand's moment and a thoroughly impressive display by the "Baby Blacks" saw then defeat South Africa 31-7 in the final and a packed Ravenhill.

A huge amount of planning and preparation went into hosting and running the tournament and none of it would have been possible without the support of our funders and sponsors, including Kingspan, UK Sport, Belfast City Council and the Northern Ireland Events Company, the host broadcaster BBC Northern Ireland and the army of volunteers who willingly gave of their time to ensure that the Ireland 2007 tourmanent was the best ever.