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A total of 37 squash lovers of different ages took part in a friendly tournament organised in Bahrain in celebration of World Squash Day.
‘Squash For All’ was held at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa.
The game – invented in England more than a century and a half ago – is gaining popularity in Bahrain and plans are underway to organise more events to spread ‘squash culture’ across the kingdom.
Squash is a racquet sport played by two or four players in a four-walled court with a small hollow rubber ball. Once the ball is served, players take turns hitting it against the front wall, above the tin and below the outline.
“We have several squash players in Bahrain, but we lack events for them to meet and compete,” said 45-year-old Bahraini coach and JCS Squash Centre chief executive Hussain Al Thawadi.
“It is critical to spread the culture of sports across the entire society to encourage its members to strive towards an active lifestyle and a healthy life.
“Our ambition at the centre is to train children to reach the highest levels of professionalism so that they can represent Bahrain on an international level.
“These events are critical as they encourage people to engage in sports which in turn creates a solid foundation for the game in the kingdom.”
The friendly tournament was inaugurated and attended by MP Ahmed Al Amer, who is Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee vice-chairman.
“Squash is considered one of the favourite games in the world as there are about 20 million people playing it globally for fun, health, training and professionalism in more than 185 countries,” he said.
“It is open to people of all ages, starting from the age of three and probably up to 70.
“In Bahrain, we work in collaboration with our brothers in the Bahrain Badminton and Squash Federation to implement the plan of president Dr Sawsan Taqawi.”
Rashid Al Samaheeji, 32, won the men’s division of the tournament while among women Mariam Al Ali, 34, led the way.
Al Ali, who works at the Foreign Ministry, is motivated, disciplined and passionate about the sport and hopes to raise Bahrain’s flag high at international arenas.
“I love sports in general but squash, in particular,” she said.
“It enhances physical fitness and improves strength, focus and competitiveness. It’s also one of the most calorie-burning sport.
“My ambition is to take part in international competitions and raise Bahrain’s flag high at the events.”
Al Thawadi said plans are underway to organise more events and attract wider participation to prepare Bahraini players for regional and international competitions.
