Squash clubs across the country are backing the sport’s bid for a place in the 2020 Olympics by taking part in World Squash Day.
World Squash Day has attracted more than 32,000 players from around 700 clubs who will be taking part in the biggest squash match in history.
World Squash Day has a 2020 theme as clubs take part in the World 2020 Challenge. Each club will stage 20-a-side matches with two teams representing Team Squash and Team 2020.
Fitness, stamina and skill will be put to the test as players compete in each individual tie, playing one game up to 20 points. Each club score will count towards an overall global result between Team Squash and Team 2020.
World Squash Day organiser Alan Thatcher, President of the Kent SRA, said: “We have had phenomenal support from squash clubs all over the world. They all care passionately about squash being part of the Olympic Games.
“We recently enjoyed welcoming world number one James Willstrop to Kent for an exhibition series and he spoke eloquently about the disappointment of seeing such a fantastic Olympic event take place in London and not being invited to take part.
“Had squash been part of the London games, I am sure James and world champion Nick Matthew would have added to the Team GB medal tally.
“Squash’s bid is based on some very positive messages about what squash can add to the Games, focusing on the quality entertainment that our leading athletes can deliver and the huge advantage to any host city of siting the glass court in a spectacular location.
“For the UK clubs taking part, we have some fabulous prizes from Dunlop and Hi-Tec to give to the clubs who stage the best events and attract the biggest numbers.”
Ahead of World Squash Day, BBC Radio Leeds are visiting the famous Pontefract Squash Club in Yorkshire for a live broadcast on Wednesday.
Numerous other BBC stations around the country are also covering local events as grass-roots players show their passion for their favourite stars being given the chance to appear on the Olympic stage.
Event website: <a href=“http://worldsquashday.com/”
