For the second straight year the Calgary Rugby Union and Rugby Alberta will be hosting the nation's top age grade rugby players as the National Festival returns to Alberta August 15th-21st.

Despite just three age categories this year, the tournament is set to be one of the largest in the six year history of the event.

Over 700 athletes will be competing in the under-16 men's, under-18 men's and under-18 women's divisions. As the event is a great showcase of up and coming talent, Rugby Canada selectors will be identifying talent for upcoming assemblies over the five days of competition.

As always parents are encouraged to travel and support athletes – and a variety of hotels and other key partnerships will be available to help lower costs for attendees.

"We are pleased to be able to partner with the Deerfoot Inn and Service Plus Inns again this year," said Rugby Alberta Executive Director Debby Ashmore. "The accommodations at these two facilities are outstanding and exactly what this event needs. "

"We are also pleased to be working with Calgary Tourism again who have agreed to a large sponsorship for the 2011 event. And of course working with Calgary Rugby Park, with its five outstanding fields, fantastic clubhouse and professional staff is a huge bonus when hosting this type of event.

"We look forward to hosting athletes, parents, officials, coaches and spectators from across the country. They will have a fantastic time here watching outstanding Rugby and hopefully also have a chance to take in some of the Western hospitality at some outstanding tourist attractions."

To see the event website with all the key information go to www.cdnfestivalrugby.com .

Schedules are not finalized but will be updated on the tournament website.

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