Bega Squash Club began its spring competition last week with some very keenly fought matches.
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Organisers said the graders were liberated after some early criticisms.
With everyone playing the grade they were set, the club recorded 16 five-set matches and most team results reflected a very even competition.
The opening night produced some thrilling squash as LJ Hooker edged out Top Video narrowly on points after games finished at 10-10.
All four matches were five sets and returning player Gerry Tarlinton featured in two of them.
Firstly he was surprised by Jason Buttgereit, who had improved considerably since Tarlinton last played.
He then filled in for his captain Alf Buttgereit, and defeated Craig Bassett in five sets.
Jane Thelan took five sets to dispose of Mathew Taylor and Robert Blacker defeated Russell Hahne also in five sets.
The introduction of 20 new players since the winter competition, and tight games, meant proceedings ran longer than expected.
Organisers urged players to be on time.
In A grade, Bega Newsagency defeated Beaurepaires 9-8, while CB Smash Repairs defeated V&H Motor Repairs 10-7 and Tarra Motors crushed Sapphire Coast Trophies 12-2.
In B grade, Hanscombes Buses overcame Kellow Parbery 9-8 and Malcolm Slater defeated Eagle Embroidery 10-6.
Mr Pizza opened the C grade well with a 13-6 win over Pell Rixon.
Pleveys Pharmacy scored a win 14-9 over Travelworld and Bega Commercial Cleaners picked up a 13-8 win over Hotondo Homes.
Shirley Hannon’s Turingal had a close round to open D grade proceedings, winning 11-7 over PJ O’Brien Electronics.
MGM Panelbeaters defeated Stowe Electrical 11-8 and Aussie Home Loans defeated Austbrokers 9-6.
With the first round complete, the club will have a two week break for the school holidays.
In that time the courts will be prepared for the upcoming Tarra Volkswagen Bega Open.
John Stylianou from Tarra Volkswagen has against signed on to sponsor the annual tournament, creating one of the richest squash events in NSW.
The tournament, which will run on October 16-17 is expected to attract some of the top players from Sydney, Canberra, Wollongong and Melbourne.
The club is also hoping for solid entries from Eden to Cooma and Batemans Bay.
The club will also hold a working bee at the courts this Saturday.
Entry forms for the Bega Open are available at the club.