Ali Leat

14 April 1985 – 3 February 2014

The 2024 Auckland International Open is in memory of a very much-loved member of the New Zealand and International Judo Family - Alister (Ali) Leat.

Ali passed away 10 years ago in February 2014 when he was 28 years old. At the time, Ali was ranked top 30 in the world and was building up to the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Many times New Zealand Champion and loved son of Irene and Martin, brother to Mars, Matthew, Mason, and Adrian, Ali was a mechatronic engineer, a massively talented and hard-working athlete, a very capable coach, and loved by so many.

Tragically, he took his own life - we will never know exactly why, but what we do know is that the mental pressure on top-level athletes is extreme. As well as remembering Ali’s passing 10 years ago - those who loved Ali also wanted to use this event to draw attention to Mental Health issues and also to bring visibility to mental health resources and pathways that exist to support our community (whether it be athletes; their supporting coaches, clubs, and families; or others who wish to be there for them).

The 2024 Auckland International Open celebrates Ali’s life and contribution to the judo community in New Zealand, across the world, and all those who cared for him - but the event also draws attention to the fact that Mental Health is a real issue for many and there are avenues for help.

Ali’s family and friends wish all athletes, clubs, coaches, and families a successful and happy event that honours Ali’s sporting spirit and memory.