Players Take To The Courts For 52 Squash Open Tournament

Open 1st, 2nd & 3rd

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Competition, camaraderie and plenty of fast-paced action filled the courts as roughly 60 players gathered for the 52 Squash Open last weekend on 31^st October and 1^st November.  

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The two-day tournament welcomed competitors from across Queensland, including Brisbane, Gladstone, Rockhampton, Cannonvale and Airlie Beach, with players going head-to-head across five divisions: Open, A, B, C and D Grade.

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Catering to a range of abilities and rankings, the event brought together experienced competitors and players across the different grades, creating a strong weekend of squash at the Mackay club.

President of 52 Squash & Fitness Club Glenn Howarth said the tournament had been a great success, with a strong turnout and plenty of positive feedback from those who travelled to compete.

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“It was a great turnout and everyone enjoyed themselves – we’re really happy with how it all went,” he said.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson also attended on Saturday, with Mackay Regional Council supporting the tournament through its sponsorship. The Mayor was particularly familiar with the venue, having played the sport during the 1970s, where he met his wife.

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With council sponsorship secured for another two years, covering 2027 and 2028, Glenn hopes the tournament will continue to grow and attract competitors from even further afield, potentially including interstate players.

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Beyond competition, Glenn said squash offered an accessible and social way to stay active, encouraging locals to give the sport another go.

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“If you want a really good cardiovascular workout, I think squash is one of the best sports in the world for doing that,” he said.

“I encourage anyone to come down, have a hit and especially at squash 52 because it's so social and friendly – there’s a great group of people in the club here!”

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With its welcoming atmosphere, indoor courts and opportunities for players of varying abilities, the club hopes to see more locals rediscover the sport, particularly as squash prepares to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

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RESULTS:

OPEN DIV

1^st Riley Steffan

2^nd Matthew Muller  

3^rd Michael Swann  

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A GRADE

1^st Paul Gardener  

2^nd Sam Thompson  

3^rd Tayla Diplock  

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B GRADE

1^st Louis McKay

2^nd Andrew Smart

3^rd Vinny Pratt

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C GRADE

1^st Josh Ferguson  

2^nd Frank Saunders  

3^rd Alan Metcalfe

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D GRADE

1^st Josh Humphrey

2^nd Kim Smith  

3^rd Michelle Close  

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