Whether you sign up as a player or attend as a spectator, the Elite Squash Festival will provide plenty of excitement and fun in an event not to be missed.
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The festival, to begin on Thursday, will see adults and juniors compete in the knockout tournament while there will be plenty of entertainment off-court as the finalists battle for title glory two days later.
Squash may not be as popular as football, cricket or tennis in the UAE, but organisers, Elite Squash, are keen to see the profile of the sport grow and attract as many competitors.
There are different categories to choose from: amateur, intermediate and experienced. In the juniors category, there are U-9, U-13, U-15 and U-19 age groups for boys while there will be girls champions in the U-11 and U-15 divisions.
Knockouts will take place at Fitness First Community Clubs at Lakes and Town Centre in Dubai while the final will be at Meadows branch on Saturday.
Besides witnessing some thrilling final games, spectators can look forward to a wide range of activities and entertainment. Two inflatable squash courts, free coaching demonstrations and a Kids Zone are just some of the things that will keep you occupied.
“This is the first time the Elite Squash Festival is happening and we are looking to make this an annual event in our sporting calendar,” said Neil Young, CEO of Elite Squash UAE.
“We want to help squash grow in the UAE because it is a very exciting and challenging sport to play in.
“Whether people come to watch or play, there is something for everyone as all our activities are squash-related so they will get to see how the sport is played as well as a hands-on experience.”
Two current PSA players will compete in an exhibition match while there will also be a complimentary Iftar buffet.
Don’t miss the chance to watch two current Top 50 PSA players participate and show us how it’s done! @EliteSquash_UAE pic.twitter.com/QbJrhVJpUI
— Elite Squash UAE (@EliteSquash_UAE) June 11, 2015
Already 30 players have registered and Young, who has organised many squash tournaments, expects that number to grow for what promises to be an exciting competition. “The other tournaments I have organised have been a success and I’m sure this will be another one,” he said.
“I want people who attend the Elite Squash Festival to see that squash can transform somebody’s life not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
“People should sign up because squash can prepare you for all the challenges and you can make a lot of friends and remain fit.
“The matches will be highly competitive and fun.
“Although winning is important, taking part is equally important and I hope that people who do attend the Elite Squash Festival will be inspired by what they see and hopefully take up the sport because squash is an extremely fun sport to play regardless of how old you are and whether you’ve played the game or not.”
Player registration closes at midnight on Monday. Entries cost Dh185 for adults and Dh85 for juniors. Each person who registers will receive a free T-shirt as well as a free 45-minute Elite Squash lesson, valid until August 30.
What: Elite Squash Festival
Where: Fitness First Community Clubs – Lakes and Town Centre (June 18 and 19), Meadows – June 20 (Dubai). When: June 18 to 20. (Finals on Saturday includes entertainment and is free admission)
Contact: Register by visiting www.elitesquash.ae. Player registration deadline is midnight Monday. You can also call +971 55 553 14 99
