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27-Oct:
Gerrard Super 8
A retrospect
Anyone who attended the Gerrard Super 8 will know that it was a
success.
A venue transformed
The venue had been transformed by Jim Quigley and his merry
men and women into a warm and intimate setting and its compact
nature meant that spectators were close to the action. The crowds
were large all four days, and knowledgeable at that. Everyone
working at the Centre was friendly and helpful and the whole
atmosphere was to the organiser's credit.
Steve Evans, the former Rugby League international,
representing Gerrard, was instrumental in making it all happen.
Players out to Impress
The players, as they rarely do these days, let no-one down.
Disappointingly Peter Nicol sustained an unpleasant-looking
injury in his first match and Lee Beachill a less severe one
in his second, so they bowed out. But the organisers did well to get
in-form pair Simon Parke and Peter Barker as
replacements.
The
champion, Thierry Lincou, showed his durability, winning two
massive matches against David Palmer and the final with
John White, both lasting over 90 minutes, on successive days. He
also survived the award of a conduct game against him at a crucial
stage of the Palmer match - and it was a harsh decision. So nobody
can deny him his success - he earned it!
White
is threatening to win, and sometimes, with the new scoring, he looks
unplayable. But he has yet to see it through.
James Willstrop contributed plenty. His match with White was
another exceptional one and he put Parke aside before finishing
third after an excellent performance against Karim Darwish,
two genuine racket players.
Palmer will be disappointed with fifth place, but it all hung on a
thread - 11/10(2-0) in the fifth to Lincou and he played well
against Beachill to lead 2-0 before the world no 1 retired. So he
can be consoled by that.
Far from Heaven
I suppose not much in life is perfect and the M62 to
Manchester is no-one's idea of heaven. On Friday night it needed
three hours to get from Pontefract to Sportcity, not much over forty
miles.
I
didn't understand the 11am start on Saturday morning, especially as
Manchester City were not at home and a late start on finals night
meant a very late finish, with spectators presumably working the
next day. I got home at 1.45am. But then I don't work much! I wonder
too, if Monday is a good night for finals, or would Thursday to
Sunday be better.
Just suggestions, and I'm sure there were good reasons for things as
they were.
An oddity was Tournament Director Paul Walters' decision to
promote himself as compere, whilst the capable and experienced
Andrew Nickeas acted as his sidekick. He certainly gave the word
'huge' new significance in the English language, and having failed,
he should restrict himself to the things he does well - compering is
not one of them.
Here to stay we hope
The whole venture, however, was a success indeed and one which
everyone will hope will become a feature of the Squash Calendar.
Well done Steve Evans and Gerrard and well done Jim Quigley, as
ever.
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Gerrard Super
8
FULL DETAILS
Gerrard Super
8
FULL DETAILS
Final:
Thierry Lincou bt John White
11/10(3-1), 5/11, 11/9, 8/11, 11/7 (98m) |
05-Oct:
Raising the Profile
LEE ON TV
Lee going to one in the world has enabled the game of squash to
obtain some welcome publicity.
An appearance on BBC TV Look North at peak viewing time gave
Lee the chance to show that , although he is not an effusive type,
he can certainly put himself over. And although nobody, except
perhaps footballers, get too much time in such programmes, Lee was
accorded his share.
Harry Gration, who was instrumental in setting up Lee's
appearance - thanks to him for that - asked most of the right
questions, but one less pertinent one: "Why Pontefract?"
There is no particular reason why world
champions or no 1's can't come from anywhere. All that is needed is
the right circumstances for players to prosper. Peter Nicol
(Aberdeen), David Palmer (outback Australia) and Cassie Jackman
(rural Norfolk) are immediate examples of places that perhaps
wouldn't suggest themselves as ideal for the production of world
champions.
ON THE COVER
With the delectable Becky Botwright on the front cover of The
Squash Player and Becky, Lauren Siddall and Kirsty McPhee
on the cover of the excellent French equivalent Planete Squash,
progress has been made in raising the profile of the game, at least
immediately.
Not for one minute am I suggesting that the glamour be confined to
girls only. Readers will be aware of the picture of Peter, Lee, John
and James open-shirted taken at Pontefract on the Charity Night last
May. That has featured on the Squash Player website and nothing
would please me more than to see that on the front of the magazine.
SQUASH: BE PROUD
We have a game to be proud of: it involves top class athletes, who
stand comparison with any sportsmen/women. They are invariably
articulate and personable and conduct themselves in a proper manner.
We have courts that can be and are placed in the most spectacular
settings imaginable. Raising the sport's image is most necessary to
improve the material lot of the tour players, to stimulate clubs and
encourage youngsters.
LET'S HAVE A BET
The other thing that needs developing is betting. Any game
you can name can be bet on and they are all featured in the Racing
Post. Squash is one of the very few remarkable for its absence.
A start was made with Stan James, but when the Eye Group deal, with
its promise of eight televised tournaments, fell through the
interest of such a big company waned, understandably.
However I have not given up and a bookmaker friend, who is a squash
interested person, is hoping to set things up very shortly, so watch
the Squash Player website for details.
So let's all get with it and wherever there is a chance to publicise
the sport, let's do it.
And a final well done to Becky, Lauren and Kirsty for putting
themselves on the line, and to Peter, Lee, John and James for
opening up their shirts.
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Pontefract Celebrates Lee's Success
...
Pontefract Squash Club is well known for its sociability and doesn't
need much invitation to stage a party. So Lee's elevation to world
no 1 was as good an excuse as anyone could wish for. I have to say I
noticed a massive difference between him being no 2 and no 1. I
suppose the lesson is that there's not much room in life for
runners-up or no 2's.
Originally scheduled for October 1st, the day the official rankings
were released, Lee had to be in Warwickshire for a promotional
exhibition with David Palmer. So it was re-scheduled for Sunday 3rd.
Lee (very generously) although enriched by his achievement, provided
a free bar between 7.30pm and 9.30pm and Gerrard, sponsors of the
forthcoming Super Eight at the end of the month, provided the
champagne.
As Lee said in his speech, whether because of the free bar or in
celebration of his achievement, he was impressed by the size of the
turnout there to greet him.
I had the pleasure of recounting Lee's achievements through my 17
years' association with him at Pontefract. The recommendation of Tim
Heeley, who clearly recognised his potential, that he join me; the
month's ban, after a show of petulance after losing a match and from
there a lesson learned.
Lee had an outstanding junior career, winning British titles at
every age group and leading England to World Team success in Cairo,
beating the World Junior Champion, Ahmed Faizy. Although European
U19 Champion, he did not win the world title, though those who were
there considered that his defeat in Cairo had very little to do with
fair play.
His injuries and illness in his early twenties have been well
chronicled and after a couple of years in the top ten, he made the
final breakthrough. Beginning with the Qatar Classic late in 2003,
followed by the Bermuda Open, the English Open and, crowning all,
the US Open which took him to no 1, a level of consistency at the
highest levels which earned due reward.
He has one or two special achievements: he became the first player
to win successive British titles and he won the last PSA event
players PAR to 15 when he took the English Open at The Crucible.
There is not much chance of anybody, not even the world no 1,
getting too big for his boots at Pontefract and Lee's eloquent
speech made it clear how he feels about the club that has fostered
and nurtured him.
He paid tribute to those close to him and to all the members, who
had contributed in any way to his success, stating how much more
pleasurable shared success is.
The party went on long into the night, Lee being one of the last to
leave because, sober, he had the responsibility of guiding club
owner Michael Todd, not sober, home.
Top Elvis impersonator Alan Norrish was still there at 4am and two
neighbours of James Willstrop, Diane and Pam, did their best to
lower house prices in Tennyson Way.
Late on, or in the early hours, Lee sang 'Angels' to remind us that
not only can he play squash and talk, he can sing as well. He will
be performing again at the Club's Christmas Dinner in December when
Sylvan Richardson and his top class musicians will be making a
welcome re-appearance.
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01-Oct:
Looking Ahead ...
America is the scent of the PSA Tour in
October in St Louis and Detroit, but action resumes
closer to home with the Gerrard Super Eight at Manchester's
Sportcity from 22nd to 25th October.
Gerrard are a major wealth management company who have sponsored at
the famous Cheltenham National Hunt Festival, so their involvement
in squash is much to be welcomed.
The invited eight are in two groups: Peter Nicol, John White,
James Willstrop and wildcard Nick Taylor make up one, and
Lee Beachill (the new world number one), David Palmer,
Thierry Lincou and Karim Darwish form the other.
Beginning on Friday, there will be four matches each night, which
will lead to play-offs for all eight players on Monday night.
The first night sees Beachill, the US Open champion, pitted against
Lincou, who won the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong Open impressively. They
met in the semi-finals in Hong Kong, but prior to that hadn't met for a
long time, so it is a match full of interest between
two in-form players.
White, in need of a strong performance, faces Willstrop, and
remembering their exceptional match at The Crucible in August, the
crowd should be well entertained, whatever the outcome.
Palmer and Darwish will be another fascinating match and deposed
world number one Nicol seems to have an easier task against Taylor,
now in semi-retirement - no longer on the world tour but busy
coaching, which he may find equally demanding!
With the prospect of four nights of entertainment of this quality
and the added factor of 11 scoring, it is hard to imagine that
spectators are in for anything other than a treat.
There will be nothing of the exhibition at this event, since the
prize money differentials are such that all eight will be eager for
success. Add to that the fact that the British Open follows soon
after, so players will be eager to test their form.
Tickets for the final are in a high demand, but every night promises
much, so my advice to any squash enthusiast would be to get there
without fail.
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Gerrard Super
8
FULL DETAILS
An Evening with
the Willstrops ...
James Willstrop and
Nick Taylor will provide your club with an evening's
entertainment, managed by Malcolm Willstrop.
If you are interested, please contact Malcolm on
01977
793333.
The Willstrops
at Wimbledon
"As a general rule, I don’t like exhibition matches. But I
must say, the Willstrops know how to entertain."
Framboise Gommendy |
|
25-Sep:
The US Open ...
in distant retrospect
Malcolm looks at the the US Open and its ramifications at the top of
the game ...
Lee Beachill's win in Boston, which
gave him the World no 1 spot, was obviously a great pleasure
personally, since Lee is a model professional, gifted, hard-working
and steadfast. He has been rewarded for consistently applying
himself in the face of difficulties and the lesson is, I suppose,
that endeavour and persistence are often rewarded.
The welcome return to form of the world's outstanding player, Peter
Nicol, was another feature of the event. Having just resisted
Anthony Ricketts, also on his way back after injury, in the first
round, he beat the improving Nick Matthew 3/1 and Joe Kneipp more
comfortably 3/0 in the semi final. Peter's resilience is legendary
and he is clearly not finished by any means.
Jonathon Power's enforced absence was disappointing, since he is
very popular in America, and there were signs in Hong Kong that the
new scoring would suit him. Let's hope he gets over his injuries
soon.
Simon Parke continued his run - final at the Crucible, 1st round in
Hong Kong and quarters in Boston, having to qualify in all - with an
outstanding win over Thierry Lincou, who must have fancied his
chances after Hong Kong where he won convincingly. Simon also dashed
the Frenchman's hope of a return to number one and Lee owes
him a drink or two.
John White made an early exit at the hands of the skilful and
easy-on-the-eye Dan Jenson. By no means under-rating the Aussie,
John may not have been helped by his travelling programme: Hong Kong
- Bratislava - Boston with little time in between. He might
have been better off at home with the twins!
Amr Shabana is not finding the World crown easy to live with - a
loss to Thierry in Hong Kong and now put out in Boston by the
competent Graham Ryding, who himself looked in good form in Hong
Kong.
There is no doubt that refereeing has become more crucial than ever
with the increased value of points with 11 scoring. Not being privy
to the refereeing situation, I am not sure how the standard can be
improved, but official bodies need to know how significant they and
their decisions are.
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14-Sep:
Becky Botwright:
EUROPEAN CHAMP!
Malcolm
Willstrop reflects
on the European success of a Pontefract favourite
The field
of the revived European Women's Championship in Bratislava may not
have been the strongest, but Becky's win gave me great pleasure.
She has been part of the Pontefract set-up for four years or so and
she has been a joy to coach, since I know of no player who works
harder or who is more receptive. A fine athlete, I am sure there is
a lot more to come from her.
Universally popular, all Pontefract will share in her win in
Bratislava, as will her friends in Lancashire.
Nor will her popularity decrease after she appears on the front
cover of the next issue of the Squash Player magazine!
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Becky with fellow champion
Gregory Gaultier in Bratislava
Semi-final v Sarah Kippax
Advice from Big Sis Vicky
FINAL:
[2] Becky Botwright (Eng) bt
[1] Vicky Hynes (Eng)
8/10, 2/9, 9/4, 9/4, 9/5 (72m)
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10-Sep:
PSA 11-point scoring
In my approval of the new scoring
system (see below), I omitted to say how the tie-breaks had added to
the excitement. Two points clear produces highly-charged rallies,
with match balls and game balls often alternating.
The more distant 15 produced less crucial rallies and took too long
to reach.
Another factor which emerged was that players were able to recover
against unfavourable scorelines, surprisingly perhaps. But it
happened too often to be ignored.
Another undesirable aspect of the 15 point game was the willingness
of players to let a game go if they fell well behind. That was not
acceptable and I am happy to bid that goodbye.
07-Sep:
Hong Kong Afterthoughts
Back in Pontefract after
the Cathay Pacific Open,
Malcolm reflects on Hong Kong ...
Unable to re-arrange my flight
home, I was unable to be with Lee in the semi-final and unable to
complete my coverage of the championship. I was unhappy to have
missed the match, and if anyone missed
my account of events - probably
doubtful [oh, I don't think so, Ed.] - I apologise.
The dignity of losers: Peter Nicol, John White, Anthony
Ricketts, Azlan Iskandar, two of whom led 2-0, is a credit to them.
James Willstrop struggled a bit after leading 2-0 and losing to Amr
Shabana. He disappeared into the Hong Kong night!
The world no 1 spot is looking likely to change again, though
the US Open will clearly affect matters. Thierry Lincou and Lee
Beachill are principal contenders and Peter Nicol will need to score
in Boston, since he goes there as champion.
Perhaps the dark spot of what was a quite exceptional event, was the
refereeing. How you solve the problem I have no idea, but the
quality of the play and the players deserved better. Several matches
were very badly handled and when points are worth 15/11ths more than
before, and when the finishing line is 4/15ths closer, points become
more and more crucial.
Congratulations to Heather Dayton and Tony Choi and
the tournament committee on a job well done. They both made everyone
feel very welcome and nothing was too much trouble.
With the Hong Kong Open behind them, the players will arrive in
Boston next week better armed. What they produced last week was
great to watch, so those at the US Open are guaranteed
excitement and attack of a high order.
I can honestly say I have never been so well entertained at a squash
tournament. There were many excellent matches, few disappointing
ones, and there can only be one reason - the 11 points a game
scoring. For those who think the game may be devalued by the
reduction from 15 to 11, have no fear. It's the best thing to have
happened for ages.
Clearly coaches and players will need to adapt, but apart from
Nicol, the seeded players all made the last eight. Lincou's
persistent precision, White's power, Power's racket skill, Palmer's
all-round game and Beachill's control and delay will all reap
rewards and there are plenty of others with enough to their game to
be a threat. Nick Matthew is proof of that.
Full Hong Kong coverage from
Malcolm
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18-May:
National Club Championships - Ladies
Pontefract's Young Guns On the Up
Pontefract's ladies team have been hitting the high spots, recently
having been featured in the Sunday Newspapers for their looks and
they showed that they can play squash.
Bidding for a record third consecutive win, the all-international
team with an average age of 20, dismissed hosts Nottingham 5-0 in
the semi-final to set up a final with the experienced New Eltham
side.
Experience could not counter youth of this quality and Pontefract's
young guns shot the opposition to pieces 5-0 without yielding a
single game.
As holders, Pontefract go to Austria to defend their European title
in September and with such a classy, young side they are sure to
acquit themselves with credit, under the managership of Terry
Dudley.
The travelling Pontefract support returned to the club for
celebrations and were joined by squash legend Sarah Fitz-Gerald,
five times World Champion, and looking at her in the National League
final still the best woman player in the world. Fitzy played for
Pontefract when they won last year's European Championship and she
remains a great favourite at Pontefract.
The future has to be bright for the young Pontefract side and they
are already European, British and Yorkshire League champions, as
well as Yorkshire Cup holders.
The appearance of Becky Botwright, Laure Siddall and Kirsty McPhee,
suitably attired, in The People and The Daily Star has already
brought challenges from Hollywood, the LA Club, Bishops Stortford
and Monton.
|
Pontefract's winning squad
National Club Champs,
Ladies Results
NATIONAL CLUB
CHAMPS FINALS
full
details |
08-May:
Charity Night at Pontefract
Malcolm reports on "the night of
all nights"
at Pontefract ...
Pontefract Squash Club staged the night of all nights when Peter
Nicol, John White, Lee Beachill and James Willstrop provided the
squash and Sylvan Richardson directed a star cast of musical talent
from the squash world.
A crowd, sold out weeks in advance, saw Peter and Lee challenged by
John and James at singles and doubles, with David Campion as master
of ceremonies.
The outcome of the matches was of little consequence as the four
stars of the squash world shared their skills and humour. John
revels in such situations, Lee was high from the birth of his son
Ben, and Peter and James were determined to make a night which
commemorated their mums, Sigrid and Lesley, an enjoyable one.
Sylvan had left no stone unturned to match the squash and the band
consisted of himself on the drums, the brilliant keyboard player
Andy Kingslow, Daryl Clarkson guitar, supported by Stafford Murray,
who, able performer though he is, confessed that he felt humble in
such company, all supported by top class sound systems.
Anne Jones, a classical mezzo-soprano, topped the bill with George
Shearing's Lullaby of Birdland and Habanera from Bizet's Carmen.
Andy Procter has an outstanding voice and his offerings of Baby
Grand and Never Saw a Miracle brought the house down.
Alan Norrish, in full regalia, gave his unique Elvis treatment to
Trouble and The Wonder of You and James Willstrop, despite never
having sung live before and confessing to being very nervous,
responded with Somewhere only we know and Tender, much to the
delight of the crowd.
Martin Sunderland from Queen's Halifax, Dave Walker and stepdaughter
Claire, Hayley Nevins and Willis Rushton were the remainder of an
outstanding bill and to witness superb performances, much aided by
Sylvan and Andy, was a privilege.
The whole cast came together to end the programme with Lou Reed's
Perfect Day and deservedly Sylvan, his band and singers were given a
tumultuous ovation.
The auction with 4 badges for Timeform's Charity Day at York in
June, hairstyling, and therapy massage by the club's resident stars
Susan and Sarah, shirts signed by the players as well as signed
photographs, taken by Andrew Box, and other items helped towards an
outstanding total of £3,500 to go to Cancer Research and Raynaud's
Scleroderma.
Peter Lonsdale followed with his disco and there were several left
at 6am, including Mick Todd, proprietor, Susan, Sarah and would you
believe it the World no 1 Peter Nicol.
Longstanding members of the Pontefract Club said that it was the
best night in its history, praise indeed for a club renowned for its
sociability.
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06-May-04
The England Team
A Happy & Successful Camp ...
Nick Matthew, whose dramatic progress up the world rankings
has, I am sure, been helped by international recognition, made the
point that he would rather have the England team cheering for him
than the 2,200 French supporters in the magnificent Le Liberté in
Rennes.
Having been a peripheral part of the England team during the week of
the championships, I have been very aware, as I was in Vienna, that
the England camp is a very happy one. Everyone knows that a happy
team in any sport is likely to produce results, which is what
happened in Rennes.
No doubt the semi-final in Vienna had left scars which needed to be
healed and the English response was evident to everyone in Rennes.
In truth, on paper, French prospects were negligible. The England
youngsters Matthew, Grant and Willstrop have all improved rapidly
since Vienna and with Nicol back at world no 1, where he still
belongs, and Beachill steady at 4, the team has a balanced look.
From the moment Matthew and Willstrop bestrode the court, French
optimism diminished. They both had a focused, “thou shall not pass”
look and played accordingly.
Nicol then captured the necessary game with the same approach and
proceeded to entertain the crowd with an amazing display of skill
and shots. What a remarkable player he is and how England has
profited from having him.
With the Australians in disarray from injuries, the England team is
arguably as good an international team as currently exists and,
being young, it has a future.
It was interesting to hear the views of many experienced squash men
outside the England camp recognising the quality of the side and
that it is a happy camp.
The World Class Performance strategy will always have its critics,
many of whom may have a personal agenda - indeed I have just lost
two players, both of whom work very hard, Lauren Siddall and Kirsty
McPhee - but in the last analysis results speak for themselves and
England’s World Class Performance players are achieving results.
The selection policies have become more aware of future needs and
the choices of Vicky Botwright, Jenny Duncalf and Adrian Grant are
to be applauded. They all performed well and fitted in readily -
they are classy players who work hard and will benefit from the
Rennes experience.
Malcolm Willstrop
|
Another Euro win for England
Malcolm
reports
from Rennes
Full Euro Teams Details |
16-Apr-04:
League Star sings the
Praises of Squash
Rugby League legend, Ellery
Hanley, who, since last year’s English Open has been present on
many squash occasions, is proving to be a major asset.
His friendship with John White is well-founded and John – the world
number 1 – was quick to acknowledge Ellery’s contribution at the
British Closed. Being around Ellery is most definitely a learning
experience, since his knowledge of world class sport, coupled with
his philosophical outlook, makes him compulsive listening.
He is quick to acknowledge the top professionals in squash and, as a
player, he knows what it takes to become top-class. What is more he
misses no opportunity to tell people what a demanding game squash is
and how good the players are.
Recently he took John White and James Willstrop as his guests to
Headingley for the Leeds v Bradford match. Speaking at the pre-match
dinner and then again at half-time in an on the field interview he
was quick to sing the praises of his guests.
Full story, with more photos & mini-video
|
FULL STORY |
08-Apr-04:
Soundness
With several top players
suffering long-term injury problems, Malcolm looks at what it takes
to stay sound in today's game ...
The apparent loss through injury to the world game of Stewart
Boswell and the knee which threatens Anthony Ricketts are, for the
individuals concerned, too catastrophic to contemplate.
It is true, too, that several of the world's top ten players have
also had lesser injuries. This has contributed to the ever changing
scene at the top of the world rankings. John White seems to be
amongst the soundest and Lee Beachill is sound enough, now that he
is no longer accident-prone.
Several of the very best players are around the thirty mark, so it
is reasonable that wear and tear is a factor.
The game, too, has altered drastically with the lower tin, reduced
scoring and the emphasis on attack, assisted by glass courts with a
greater awareness of the need to entertain.
Those who were at Canary Wharf were well entertained as the players
there revelled in the conditions and they, the players, need to
bring these attitudes onto the PSA circuit to keep and improve the
game's appeal.
But the body is going to be pulled around more than ever before and
the demands on top squash players put whingeing footballers and their
managers to shame with their two matches a week, especially with the
money they are being paid.
In days of yore when Jonah Barrington and Geoff Hunt plied their
trade, it was inevitable that they would finish up with problems.
They did not have the benefit of Sports Science and expert advice.
Today's players work in a much more enlightened age, as they need to
do. They can come off the back of PSA events, with all they entail,
straight into the demanding domestic competition of National and
Super League, as well as high-powered County League.
The time for resting and practice is at a premium, as is the time to
see physios. All the facilities available will help players to stay
sound, but principal factors in my opinion are the ways in which
players have been raised. It is a dangerous and easy route to
over-train players physically when they are young. This may well
bring instant results, but the consequences may be unsoundness.
There is, too, the genetic factor.
So rather than looking at players in terms of height and build it
might be better to examine how they have been managed physically,
how good they are at looking after themselves and, where possible,
at the genetic connections.
My own preference has always been to go gradually with players,
waiting till their bodies are strong enough for a heavier workload.
I have seen nothing to make me change that opinion and it is quite
reassuring that, after appropriate time, there may well be a lot
more to come when serious training is undertaken.
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Charity Night at Pontefract
Sat 8th May
A charity night will be held at Pontefract to remember Sigrid
Nicol, mother of Peter, and Lesley Willstrop, mother of James and David
Campion, where all proceeds will be divided between Backup Cancer
and Reynaud's Scleroderma.
Peter and James will be supported by World no 1 John White and Lee
Beachill in providing squash entertainment, with David acting as Master of
Ceremonies.
The squash will be followed by a musical evening, directed by Sylvan
Richardson, formerly of Simply Red, and will bring together some of the best musical
talent in the squash world.
Peter Lonsdale, Pontefract player and well known in Teesside will provide
the disco and Karaoke and a long night is expected, with breakfast
available for those with stamina!
For tickets
tel: 019 777 93333
|
26-Mar-04:
Canary Wharf
Classic
Great crowds all week were
topped by a sell-out on finals night and Peter Nicol and world no 1
John White, which sounds like a final, played the third/fourth
play-off.
They were determined to entertain, which is a part of what these
players need to do, and that was no problem to two of the most
popular players in the world. They swapped shirts, ran like demented
dervishes, talked to anyone who would listen and gave the crowd,
freed from their City Labours, an hour's worth of pure skill and
comedy.
The serious stuff was about to happen however, since Thierry Lincou,
rediscovering some form through the event, and ambitious James
Willstrop were not too concerned with the lighter side ...
Willstrop on the Wharf -
Malcolm reports from Canary Wharf |
Malcolm prefaced his final report with "sorry to have to write about
James".
|
23-Mar-04:
PROFILE:
RAISING THE GAME
by Malcolm Willstrop
I doubt if anyone with the
welfare of squash at heart would disagree with me when I say that
raising the game's profile is of paramount importance.
After those seemingly heady days over twenty years ago, when the
game became public property, we are probably at our lowest ebb in
terms of newspaper and television coverage, despite the efforts of
such journalists as Colin McQuillan, Dicky Rutnagur and Richard
Eaton. Nor am I undermining Sky's splendid offerings, but in the
days of the Hi-Tec British Open we had terrestrial television
coverage.
The quality of the world's leading players, the positive way in
which the game is played these days and the glamorous settings in
which the glass court can be placed are surely assets, which could
earn more recognition.
Do not pretend, either, that publicity is unnecessary, since the
financial lot of the professional player is not always a happy one.
I am amazed how little players in some major events earn even when
they have reached the later stages. They deserve more and publicity
is the main way of achieving that.
The National Bodies who represent squash have not always, if ever,
seemed cognisant of the need to attract publicity and few employ the
necessary specialists for that purpose. That should be a first
requirement.
It is never enough to offer criticism without suggesting how matters
may be improved.
My own experience is that coverage, even at advanced levels can be
achieved but not without persistence, and as with all things, it is
the glamour aspects of the sport which will appeal to a more
general public.
Some of the world's leading players are not too good at promoting
the game themselves, but there are several that are. Peter Nicol is
a prime example and he and those like him must be maximised.
At the considerable risk of being branded sexist, there is a host of
attractive girls playing the game at high levels. Not only could
they raise the profile, but they would appeal to younger girls who
may be attracted to the sport.
Whatever people think most younger girls want to play a sport that
makes them feel comfortable and look good. Squash fits that bill.
I may be appearing to talk about top players, but they are the means
by which the game can attract publicity, from which everyone can
benefit: youngsters and new players will be made more aware of the
sport and more inclined to give it a try.
Local coverage is much less of a problem, I believe, and
certainly in the area I live Fred Willis has done over the years,
and still does, a marvellous job for squash in the Yorkshire Evening
Post, and the local Pontefract paper is very receptive. My
experience of other areas is similar.
But useful and worthwhile though that is, it is not sufficient on
its own and national coverage is what is required.
The other factor which would influence profile is betting.
Look in the Racing Post and you can bet on any sport you care to
name, except squash. The misguided notion that it would lead to
fixed matches is bound to be raised, but if tennis and snooker can
handle it, as they have done with not much trouble, then there is no
reason to suppose squash cannot do so.
Certainly with the men's game as it is, any bookmakers would be
happy to be involved. They could hardly have lost this year.
If we had nothing to shout about, there would be no point in these
thoughts, but I think the game is as good or better than it has ever
been.
We can all welcome the Canary Wharf Invitation Eight, staged
by Eventis which begins tonight.
Set amongst London's wealth, in glamorous surroundings, here is an
event guaranteed to raise the profile.
Well done Peter, Tim and Angus and everyone connected. I hope it is
a great success.
[Malcolm will be reporting daily from this week's
Canary Wharf Classic]
|
Making a start:
The 2004 British Open
will feature in a BBC TV Grandstand highlights programme on 7th Oct.
FULL STORY |
The Glamour Aspect:
Willstrop in the Sunday Times
FULL STORY |
Local Coverage:
Huddersfield Daily Examiner
FULL STORY
|
Starts tonight:
with daily coverage from Malcolm Willstrop
FULL DETAILS |
|
27-Feb-04
Men's World Scene
Nobody would dispute that the Men's World Tour is the most
fascinating it has ever been. 2003's results proved that and what
has since happened in Kuwait,
Sweden and
New York has done
nothing to change that view.
Thierry Lincou's hold on the no. 1 spot did not appear to be
a secure one and we now know just how short-lived, since John
White goes to no. 1 in March, having squandered previous
opportunities. Everyone, except maybe Lincou, will be pleased for
the popular Aussie.
Peter Nicol, who loves being knocked down so he can get up
again - a bit like British Heavyweight boxers of yesteryear - seemed
to have recovered from his pre-Christmas virus when he won in
Kuwait. But worryingly he had to concede to Lee Beachill in the
British Closed, feeling breathless.
Defying the Doctor, he went to New York and what did he do? He won
again, beating the in-form White, who won the British Championship,
in the glamorous Tournament of Champions.
Lee Beachill lost to White in a splendid British final and
then lost again, more easily, in the semi-final in New York, where
the draw gave him every chance.
Amr Shabana's win in the World Championship looked suspect
form, despite his undoubted talent, and he has been shot down in
Kuwait and Sweden. He is not going to find life easy.
David Palmer is a big time operator: a World Title and two
British Opens to his credit, but he had a seriously troubled 2003,
and, back and apparently firing on all cylinders, he suffered a
reverse in New York. He is definitely not to be written off though,
since he is strong and bloody-mindedly determined.
Jonathon Power, one of the great players, is not finding
consistency too easy. He can still compete with the best, but doing
it day after day seems another matter. He may become a less frequent
winner at the highest level, but will remain a major attraction.
Anthony Ricketts has had a knee operation and his surge has
been halted, presumable only temporarily. Stewart Boswell, sadly,
seems to have been beaten by his back.
Injuries have certainly played a part. Nicol, Palmer, Power, Lincou
and Ricketts have all had problems of various sorts, some minor
others major.
Oddly enough Beachill, who had a chequered career in his early
twenties, seems now to be sounder than most, though that's where
White is scoring heavily at the moment. We have all seen him do the
splits!
I doubt if any of these main players have lost their desire, but
some are over 30 and others are close to it, when the motivation may
wane.
None of them are going to dominate as Nicol and Power have done,
which makes every event full of interest.
Bermuda is next and then the very
significant Qatar
Masters when the world's top 32 will be in action playing for
big points.
|
Nicol & White in New York
Lincou loses #1 spot in NY
Shabana finds it hard going in Kuwait
2004 So Far ...
|
16-Feb-04
British Closed: Men's Final
John White, whose form is becoming enigmatic and who had not
impressed in his matches with Alex Gough and Adrian Grant, put those
behind him with a convincing display in the final.
Attacking from the outset, hitting the ball low and hard, which is
what he does best, he was clearly in a different frame of mind than
he was in the semi-final, when he did none of that.
Beachill, having had less to do prior to the final, had looked in
good form and he was up to what White was offering. White edged the
first game on merit, but Beachill had the better of the second until
inexplicably and wantonly he hit four successive shots down to go
behind 2-0.
It was White who regained a narrow initiative in the third and at
14-12, the title looked to be his. But no, Beachill, reluctant to
leave his favourite setting prematurely, saved three match balls and
took it 15-14.
Resistance continued until midway through the fourth when White drew
clear to win his first British title. 15/8 after over 80 minutes.
White has formed a close friendship with rugby league legend Ellery
Hanley and he was quick to acknowledge the benefits of the guru's
advice. He had stayed throughout the week with the Hanley family at
their house in Manchester.
The championships were a great success thanks to Jim Quigley and his
merry men. The venue is fantastic, the large crowds were
knowledgeable and appreciative.
For what Manchester does for squash those of us involved in the game
would like to thank them.
More from
Malcolm
on the Nationals |
Beachill can't keep White at bay
John White is congratulated
by Ellery Hanley
|
01-Feb-04
James Willstrop in Kuwait
Risking the wrath of those who think I only write about James and
English players, I feel sure there are some who will be interested
in his thoughts about the sensational performances he managed in
Kuwait City.
After a much-needed break during the holiday period, it was clear
that James was in good shape for Kuwait. I particularly enjoyed his
match with Simon Parke in the National League, when I could see his
racket was working and he was thoroughly enjoying himself. The fact
that the match was extended was very helpful.
I was therefore confident that James would play well in Kuwait,
though with such a quality field and a qualifier to get through
there was no point in expecting too much.
In the final qualifying round he faced the gentlemanly Omar
Borolossy, whose recent form had been good and a 3-0 win in 40
minutes augured well, especially as James told me he had played
well, something he rarely says.
One qualifying slot in the main draw looked appealing: Ong Beng Hee,
who has been out of form, to play John White, and fortunately that's
what he got.
After a very tough first game which James sneaked 17/16 he beat Ong
3-0 to give him a quarter-final against John, already exceeding
expectations.
We have both long felt that of the top six players in the world,
John was the one he might have a chance against, if things went
well. This is no disrespect to John, but a matter of styles.
Obviously if John was at his very best James could forget it.
From what he says he didn't see the ball in the first game, but as
the storm abated he gradually eased his way into the match, won a
crucial third narrowly and the fourth convincingly. He was euphoric
when he rang Pontefract as were his fans there, but I reminded him
that the tournament wasn't over and if he wanted to give himself a
chance in the semi-final he needed to refocus quickly.
Jonathon Power has been, and still is, a player who has influenced
James with his immense racket skills, and Jonathon has always been
ready to acknowledge James's promise.
They played a wonderfully watchable match at Nottingham in the
British Open, but James is much stronger physically now.
He decided to take the game to Jonathon and felt that he played
exceptionally for him to lead 2-0. He was close to a 3-0 win at
11-all, but Jonathon has done it all before countless times and took
the next two, both 15/12.
Odds on the Canadian now, but from 5-all James took control and won
15/9 for more euphoria. Observers reckoned the match had just about
everything - fluctuations in score, stroke-making of the highest
order, Jonathon's sense of theatre and ultimate sporting
acknowledgement of his young pretender.
The final of the Kuwait Open with Lincou, Palmer, Beachill, Shabana
and Power all departed - scarcely believable - pinch yourself and
wake up in the night to see if it's true.
Come the morning of the final and yes, it definitely is true.
Another flight to rearrange, sore feet to repair, head to sort out
to make sure the final suits the occasion.
James began well against Peter, led 12/8, couldn't capitalise, lost
it to 13 but attacked forthrightly to win the second to feel he was
back in the match.
In the third weariness set in and Peter was quick to seize the
initiative, but in the fourth James staged an acceptable recovery
before bowing out after 63 minutes, hardly a decision for the
officials to make and the capacity crowd of six to seven hundred
well satisfied, as was James.
He thought that had he been fresher, he could have got a little
closer, but was quick to acknowledge Peter's superiority and
marvelled at the champion's ability to come back again. As he stated
after the match his success in Kuwait doesn't mean he's there, but
he will gain in confidence and hope to consolidate.
The Swedish Open next week, after several domestic engagements, will
be a test and he will hope he has recovered in time.
|
John White in the quarters
Jonathon Power in the semis
Peter Nicol in the final
James leaves his mark
on new-found fans
A man of many talents ... |
|