Masters women steal the show in great weekend of squash in Ireland

Scotland’s representative teams gained valuable experience across the age groups in a weekend of top-class squash action in Ireland.

With players from under 13 to over 60 taking part in events on the Emerald Isle, it provided a chance for the Scots to test themselves against strong opponents.

The standout success came from the Women’s Over 60 team, who shone brightest of all, with a string of top performances to claim the title.

Masters Home Internationals – Galway

The Women’s O35/40s and O60s and Men’s O40 and O60s travelled to Galway aiming to secure bragging rights over the other home nations and hosts Ireland.

The Women’s O60 team, made up of Sue Strachan, Rosie Wilson, Heather Spens and Julia Horsburgh, were dominant throughout.

With three consecutive 4-0 victories, the women earned a perfect 36 points to take the crown.

It proved to be a more challenging weekend for Scotland’s other teams, although several players would go on to win individual matches across both days.

The Men’s O60 secured a narrow 3-2 win over Wales, which provided another highlight of the weekend for the travelling Scots, with Neil Stone-Wigg, Adam Robertson and Chris Holt putting the points on the board.

Sue Strachan, Women’s O60 captain said: “We had a brilliant weekend in Galway, wearing the Saltire with pride. It is always so good to meet up with squash friends from the other home nations and share the joy of great competition in the best spirit of squash.

“I am so proud of our whole team Rosie Wilson, Heather Spens and Julia Horsburgh. We played our best squash and our team spirit was so strong, supporting each other every point.

“To captain this team to the win is very very special. We are thankful to everyone who helped us on our journey – friends, clubmates, coaches, loved ones, Scottish Squash and the rest of the Scottish Masters Squash family. We felt the support strongly throughout.”

5 Nations – Dublin

Meanwhile in Dublin, Scotland’s young players competed in the annual 5 Nations tournament against England, France, Wales and Ireland – one of the highlights of the junior squash calendar.

The youngest Scots, competing in the U13s, faced stern opposition, with defeats to Ireland and England.

Sophie Bannatyne claimed a consolation win against France, before adding another match – along with Om Patil and Taline Bedair – in a thrilling 3-3 draw with Wales.

The U15s drew with the hosts, as Emma Little, Jessica Craig-Gould and Ellis Isaacs put the crucial points on the board for Scotland.

Callum Smith would go on to win a match in a defeat against Wales.

Defeat to eventual winners England, and runners-up France were useful learning experiences, with all members of the team having the chance to cut their teeth against strong opponents.

Kylie Lindsay, Scottish Squash Pathway Manager and Coach said: “It was a tough weekend for all of the players at the 5 Nations, but hopefully a valuable experience which showed the level required to help with their future development.

“With eight of the 14 players making their Scotland debut it was an eye-opener for them, but they were a fantastic group and represented Scotland with pride.”