Jan 12 2010
Bigger and better than ever, and now enjoying its 30th year, the Bedell Group Jersey Squash Festival has become an essential fixture in the Island’s sporting calendar. The eagerly anticipated tournament runs from 9-11 October 2009, and will attract 250 formidable players from the UK and mainland Europe.
Each year the bar has been raised, with teams flocking to Jersey to take part in a contest that has earned a reputation for its facilities, hospitality and the high standard of competition. The numbers have grown from an entry of 12 teams of five at the inaugural festival, to an impressive 40 teams competing in 2009. Though fun and sportsmanship have always shone through, there’s a serious level of sporting rivalry these days, with professionals and leading county players vying for top honours.
This year, ten new teams have entered the fray, including representatives from Denmark and Switzerland. One of the strongest challengers looks set to be a team of first-time entrants from Manchester, led by the many-times British Masters Champion Ian Bradburn. Players will be arriving from all over the UK, including Scotland and Guernsey. There are also accomplished teams from the Royal Navy, Army, Police and Fire Services, who look set for a good showing. But watch out for Horsham Club – they’ve been in and amongst the top contenders for 28 years, and were last year’s champions.
Bedell Group is proud to be associated with such a successful and vibrant competition, supporting a sport that has such a long tradition in Jersey. It’s one of the many ways in which we strive to assist and encourage our local community. For more details, please visit www.jerseysquashclub.co.uk.
