Over 750 players from 46 nations have gathered in Birmingham for the 2012 World Masters Squash Championships.
A terrific sporting atmosphere is building across the University of Birmingham where the championships are taking place, with players sharing the venue with the Jamaican Olympic team, who are training on campus ahead of the London Olympic Games.
Squash is a surprise omission from the Olympic Games but continues to strengthen its case to be included in the 2020 Olympics, with an excellent men’s and women’s professional tour, advances in television coverage and global participation events.
Current World Number one, England’s James Willstrop, will be treating players and locals to an exhibition match on the spectacular all-glass show court in the brand new Bramall Auditorium on Saturday (21 July).
Play starts tomorrow (Saturday) with 18 titles up for grabs, from over 35’s to over 80’s battling it out to be crowned world champion.
Edgbaston Priory Club, West Warwickshire Sports Club and Solihull Arden Club will also host matches throughout the week alongside the University of Birmingham.
For the full draw and schedule visit www.squashworldmasters.com
Snapshot from the players:
Name: Stephen Creak
Category: O65
From: Sydney, Australia
“I love squash, I have family in the UK so I’m combining the rigorous challenge of competing with overseas players and a holiday. I hope the weather stands up!”
Name: Ted Gornall
Category: O60
From: Victoria, Canada
“I love playing and see the event as a great way to play squash in my age group and travelling the world. This is my fourth World Masters, I really enjoy catching up with all the other players I’ve met at previous events.”
Name: Joan Smith
Category: O45
From: Shetland Islands
“It’s fantastic that the event is being held in Great Britain and it’s the school holidays so I thought I had to take the opportunity! My friend is playing who lives in Birmingham. I love the game and have been playing for 24 years.”