This Is Guernsey

MARTIN WATTS stands in the way of Jersey’s Rob Hickling landing a third straight men’s title at the weekend’s NRG International CI Championships at Beau Sejour. Twelve players are to contest the men’s trophy and Peter Bridgeman, the island’s director of squash, said there was every hope of a Sarnian emerging triumphant.

On Hickling, he said: ‘Although he is seeded one he will be facing tough opposition from Martin Watts who defeated him 3-0 in their last encounter. Should both players progress to the final then this should be a match not to be missed.’

Each adult section is now an open event allowing players of any standard to enter.

‘It is hoped that this will provide our up and coming players with competition and a chance to pit their wits against other islanders,ﾔ said Bridgeman.

‘Jersey men veterans have always been very strong and this year is no exception. Holder Hugh Jones is going for his fifth title but I predict that fellow islander Steve Law will get the better of him this year.

‘Unfortunately for us several of our stronger veteran players are either injured or have work commitments so our hopes of snatching the title lie with Paul Luxon, Larry Grover, Terry Hodson or Neville Johnson.

‘Allen Brown (Jersey) is unable to defend his vintage title so Guernsey will be pinning their hopes on Frank Forino and Max Trouteaud.’

Bridgeman rates Caesarean Kate Cadigan as favourite to retain her title, but it is far from a formality.

‘Natalie Dodd and newcomer Erin Gray (Guernsey) also hope to do well. Jersey are bringing over four ladies for this event so there will be some very good matches.

‘Jersey continue to struggle to field any junior girls so this will be a Guernsey-only championship in this section.

‘Katherine Jensen and Issey Norman-Ross are favourites to take the under-13 and 15 titles respectively.

‘In the under-11 boys Niall Adams and Andrew Jensen [both from Guernsey] will be battling it out for the trophy. ‘

Both are coached by Bridgeman, who said: ‘This is a big learning curve for the boys and the one who can keep his nerve will win. There is not a lot to choose between them.’

There are six boys in the under-13 event, three from each island.

Pre-event favourite is Sarnian Janick Radford.

‘There is an eight-strong draw for the under-17 boys which means that players will play three matches in one day.

‘It is important to finish matches quickly and efficiently saving energy for the latter rounds.

‘James Brehaut is the pick of the bunch but if he is not careful then I am sure there are a lot of players in the draw who will prove to be a tough match for him.

‘Over the course of the weekend there are a total of nearly 90 matches to be played.’

* Play starts tomorrow at 11am and Sunday from 9am through to 7pm. All spectators are welcome free of charge.