Recently, the cyber community came together at the iconic Croke Park for an event that not only challenged the minds of cybersecurity enthusiasts but also showcased the burgeoning talent within Ireland. The Zerodays.ie Capture the Flag (CTF) competition was a resounding success, drawing in over 500 participants across 130 teams, divided into three fierce competitions: Schools, College, and Open.
As Training Partners, Fortify Institute, alongside EC-Council, had the privilege of contributing to this landmark event. Our collaboration was highlighted by EC-Council’s generous sponsorship of the prize for the Colleges Competition Winners, Team Loki - comprising the brilliant minds of Andrew, Daniel, Ivan, and Peter. Their victory was a testament to the high level of skill and dedication among participants. The Fortify Institute team look forward to supporting the lads as they receive their EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (E|CIH) Certification.
The event was not just about competition; it was a vibrant gathering of cybersecurity professionals, sponsors, and enthusiasts. It provided us at Fortify Institute a fantastic opportunity to engage with the community, discussing their training needs and exchanging insights. Conversations with fellow sponsors and participants underscored the collective commitment to advancing cybersecurity knowledge and skills.
Congratulations are in order for all the winners. Their achievements highlight the critical importance of events like Zerodays.ie in fostering cyber skills in a fun, safe environment. Moreover, the competition serves as an excellent platform for showcasing talent for Ireland’s squad in the European Cybersecurity Challenge, highlighting the depth of talent we have in our country.
Special thanks to Mark Lane and his dedicated team for orchestrating such a successful event. Their efforts in organising and executing the competition deserve immense praise.
Volunteering at Zerodays.ie is an experience I highly recommend. The sense of community, combined with the thrill of the competition, makes for an unforgettable experience. By all accounts, the after-party was a celebration of the collective achievements and a chance to unwind after the day's excitement.
The Fortify Institute stand was a hub of activity, featuring sweets, lock-picking challenges, and the invaluable assistance of my two daughters, Esme and Romy, who helped make our participation even more special. Engaging with attendees through our sponsor challenge was a highlight, offering a unique blend of learning and entertainment.
In conclusion, the Zerodays.ie CTF was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the cyber community's passion, talent, and potential. Events like these are crucial for encouraging and nurturing cybersecurity skills in a manner that is both educational and immensely enjoyable. We look forward to continuing our support for such important initiatives and contributing to the growth of cybersecurity talent in Ireland and beyond.