Honouring a Champion: The Craig Fallon Cup and the Fight for Mental Health Awareness
May 12, 2025
As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week, we reflect on the power of sport, community, and remembrance through one deeply meaningful initiative—the Craig Fallon Cup.
More than just a judo tournament, the Craig Fallon Cup stands as a living tribute to a world-class athlete and beloved friend, and a vital platform to raise awareness of mental health.
A Legacy Born from Loss
The Craig Fallon Cup was founded in 2022 by Gavin Davies, following the tragic loss of his close friend and judo legend, Craig Fallon, to suicide in 2019. Determined to ensure Craig’s legacy lived on, Gavin envisioned a memorial tournament that would reflect not only Craig’s athletic achievements but also the compassion and warmth he brought to those around him.
“Craig had a huge impact on my life,” Gavin shares. “I’m honoured to be part of the team ensuring his legacy continues.”
Joining Gavin in this mission were fellow judoka Jagjit Khera and Sarah Newbury. Jagjit’s immediate support added strength to the vision, while Sarah’s expert knowledge as a Tournament Director ensured the event would be delivered with the professionalism and reverence Craig deserved.
A Tournament with Purpose
The motivation was clear: celebrate Craig’s life and love for judo through a high-quality competition. But the Craig Fallon Cup quickly became more than a tournament—it became a movement. It offered a way for the judo community to come together, not only in memory of Craig but in support of wider mental health awareness.
“Judo can support your mental health in so many ways,” says Gavin. “From the endorphins released in training to the deep sense of community and belonging you find at a club—it’s a lifeline for many.”
Through its growing momentum, the event has inspired judo clubs and individuals across the country to take action. Training sessions are held under the Craig Fallon Foundation banner, fundraising events are organised, and most importantly, conversations around mental health are being opened.
Mental Health at the Core
Proceeds from the Craig Fallon Cup support Mind, one of the UK’s leading mental health charities. For the organisers, this was a deeply personal choice.
“Craig struggled with his mental wellbeing, and we want to be part of the solution,” Gavin explains. “The more services and support that are out there, the more lives we can help save.”
During training sessions, mental health coping strategies are discussed, and participants are signposted to resources and organisations like Mind and their local GPs. The goal is simple yet powerful: to make it easier for people to ask for help before it’s too late.
A Community United
The response from the judo community has been overwhelming. Clubs, athletes, and supporters have embraced the Cup, not only for what it represents in sporting terms but for its emotional and social impact.
“Craig was an exceptional judoka, but more than that, he was a kind, caring person,” Gavin says. “We feel the support we’ve received is a reflection of the admiration people had for him.”
Moving Forward, Together
As the Craig Fallon Cup grows, so does its message: mental health matters, and no one should suffer in silence. By blending sport, remembrance, and advocacy, this unique initiative is not only preserving Craig’s legacy—it’s saving lives.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, the story of the Craig Fallon Cup reminds us that through grief, hope can emerge. And through sport, community, and compassion, we can all play a part in making mental health support more visible, accessible, and human.
