Boston Open returns

The BSPA Boston Open returns for an 18th consecutive year this weekend, with world #68 Charles Sharpes and World University Champion Millie Tomlinson leading the draws.

Boston Squash and Racketball Club is hosting the prestigious professional tournament once again, and it is open to the public. There will be another host of world and nationally ranked squash players competing for their share of a 4-figure prize pot. The Boston Open is one of eight events on the British circuit, which also includes tournaments in Wimbledon and Edinburgh.

This year’s men’s draw is headed up by world #68 Charles Sharpes. Charles played at the Boston Open in 2011, when he reached the semi-final before losing a close five-set semi against Andy Whipp. The 22-year-old won the British U23 National Championship in April. His main competitor will be Doug Kempsell, who is already Scottish #3 at the age of 21.

Spectators this weekend could well be watching one of the game’s future superstars as 22-year-old Millie Tomlinson leads the women’s draw. She is already world #77, and won her first WSA (Women’s Squash Association) title just last month in New York. The achievement was all the more remarkable given that she was unseeded. The second seed is Lily Taylor, herself in the world top 100 despite only celebrating her 18th birthday this year.

Looking ahead to the tournament, organiser Mark Hildred said: “The Boston Open puts the town and the club on the sporting map. We’re delighted to welcome once again some players of outstanding quality. We are as ever thankful to all our sponsors who make this possible, and in particular Moore Thompson Chartered Accountants who are continuing their long involvement with the competition.”

The tournament, which is held at the club down Rosebery Avenue, is open to the public and free to attend. Full draws with times are available online at bspasquash.com, but play is generally from 2-4pm and 6-9pm on Friday, 11.30am on Saturday, and 3pm on Sunday.

For full coverage of this weekend's event, including all the results, reports and pictures, go to bspasquash.com.