SQUASH Irish Squash Senior Nationals

The Irish Squash Senior Nationals take place this weekend in Fitzwilliam Lawn Tennis Club on December 17th - 19th. In the year that Irish Squash celebrates its 75th Anniversary, the competition as always promises top squash action.

In what is the main event in the Irish Squash Calendar, the 2009 champions Madeline Perry and John Rooney are both back to defend their titles.

Madeline has recently returned from the Women's World Championships in New Zealand where she represented Ireland along with her team mates. Aisling Blake, Laura Mylotte and Zoe Barr who will also be taking part. Perry has had an excellent season winning the Australian Open in August and reaching a career high ranking of No 5 in the World.

John Rooney also returns from the United States to defend his title. The great Willie Hosey sees his return to the Nationals in what will be his 5th decade of competing in the event he once dominated. The record 10-time Irish National's winner and 2001 British Open Over 40's champion who was once ranked as high as No. 17 on the PSA circuit last competed in the main event in 2002 when he finished 3rd and returned the following year to beat good friend Ken Flynn.

Arthur Gaskin current Irish Number 1 and Derek Ryan will also be taking part.Games get under way on Friday at 1700hrs with a full schedule on Saturday and Sunday starting at 10am each day. Semi Finals Saturday - 1900 approx. Women's Final is on 14:30 on Sunday with the Men's Final to follow immediately after.Entrance to the event is free and all are welcome to attend and see some high class squash. Full details and updates on www.irishsquash.com or on Facebook / Irish Squash