Ritzbury powers Junior National Squash C'ships

Richard DWIGHT

The twenty year old Junior National Squash Championship which had its origin in 1990, is competitive enough to be prestigious and has come to be regarded as a top notch national ranking tournament.

This year's eight-day tournament conducted by the Sri Lanka Squash Federation (SLSF) and sponsored by Ritzbury Chocolates will be held from October 17 to 24 at the Gymkhana Club Squash Courts, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 7.

Much enthusiasm is bound to prevail amongst the juniors and a high standard of squash is expected with the best competing.

It was gathered from the President of the SLSF, Oliver Guruge that this year's Junior Nationals will feature the "Circuit Draw System" thus ensuring fair participation and with more matches to all top ranked players.

Entries will be accepted only at the SLSF Secretariat and Tamil Union C and A Club, Colombo 8 upto 5.00 p.m on Monday, October 12 - the draw will be held on the same day at 6.30 p.m.

Guruge, who addressed a media briefing at the Gymkhana Club, said there would be 18 events which include; Boys and girls Under-09, 11, 13, 15, 17 and 19.

Novices juvenile Boys and Girls Under-12 and Under-15 and also Novices - Junior Boys and girls Under-19.

He explained that there will be three new categories Viz. Novices Junior Under-19 and Juvenile Under-12 and 15.

In addition, two special awards will be awarded to the most improved player in the girls and boys Under-17 and Over-13.

Brand Manager of Ceylon Biscuits Ltd, Nilupul de Silva said they were proud to partner SLSF at this 20th Junior Squash Nationals and saw a perfect brand fit with squash as many players tend to consume chocolates prior to matches as it gives them energy and, concluded by assuring CBL's support in the future as well.

Gihan Suwaris of S. Thomas', Mount Lavinia is the defending champion but stiff competition will come from Binura Jayasuriya, Kasun Weerasuriya, Dilshan Seneviratne amongst others.

Amongst the girls, last year's runner-up Randima, Ranaweera will be up against the Udangawa sisters Damindi and Nandini of CIS and Sharya Guruge of Holy Family Convent, Colombo 4.