Records tumbled at the first ever Norfolk Junior Squash Grand Prix held at Norwich Sportspark, with juniors from age 5 to 18 all competing at the same venue in 10, ability based groups. 72 players from 17 Clubs competed, with 9 first time entries attending. These impressive statistics offer unequivocal evidence of the growing junior squash scene in Norfolk.
The Sportspark’s 5 glass backed courts provided a perfect venue for players and parents, with ample seated viewing and spacious surroundings. Tournament organizers were also able to attract Norfolk’s current top junior Harry Taylor as well as other juniors from Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire.
Five recent Grand Prix winners, along with Norfolk County players Andrew Whiting, Luke Perry and fast improving Alex Williams contested Group 1, and produced a dazzling display of squash between them. Harry Taylor’s recent scintillating form continued as he saw off Luke, Andrew and Jack Bell without dropping a game to win the top group, he must surely be pushing hard for National recognition.
110 matches were played altogether; all marked by the juniors themselves and produced numerous close and exciting matches. Final Results were as follows.
Group 1.
1. Harry Taylor (Leys), 2. Jack Bell, 3. Andrew Whiting
Group 2.
1. Adam Sinkins (Fakenham), 2. Alex Brown, 3. Connor Doy
Group 3.
1. Sam Bradshaw (Cambs), 2. Jonathan Warrin, 3. Josh Brownlow
Group 4.
1. Ed Curtis (Suffolk), 2. Ryan Betts (Suffolk), 3. Dominic Skuse
Group 5.
1. Chris Cook (Broadland), 2. Jordan Walker, 3. Jamie Matthew
Group 6.
1. David Gorrod (Bannatynes), 2. Robby Coates, 3. Casper Tutt
Group 7.
1. Brandon Fairbrother (Fakenham), 2. Jackson Yaxley, 3. Martin Jolly
Group 8
1. Liam Bond (Bannatynes), 2. Joseph Pearson, 3. Jade Spalding
Group 9.
1. Kieran Dodman (Fakenham), 2. Samuel Rowe, 3.Lydia Brownlow
Group 10
1. Charlie Simpson (EAT&SC), 2. Olivia Boyce, 3. Bonnie Butler
Norfolk Junior Squash would like to thank Maria Rowe from the Sportspark for her invaluable help in hosting the event, and Ralph Tompkins, Keith Tutt, Paul Reeson and the other parents who provided invaluable assistance throughout the Tournament.
Thanks also go to the Eastern Daily Press newspaper who covered the events and supplied all photos.