By Bronwyn Hastings

Horsham hosted the Victorian Squash Masters’ Tournament at the weekend, bringing more than 60 players with their officials and supporters from across Victoria and interstate to the region.

Women from 30 years of age were eligible to play masters, men from 35 – the oldest player, Frank Bugeja, celebrated his 82nd birthday on the first day of the competition. 

Gippsland’s Bugeja said he had been playing for 64 years.

“I had my first game of squash when I was 18, and I have been playing masters since 1992,” he said.

“I have been reasonably injury-free, I’m lucky. 

“I had a sore knee from football, and I wear a brace – it’s just like a baby and a dummy.”

Tournament director Darren O’Neill said Victorian Masters’ Squash Association ran four tournaments each year.

“We like to go to country Victoria,” he said.

“Every year we just pick different places and bring our merry people along – the squash players – and support the local club.

“Earlier in the year, we went to Mildura. 

“We’ll be going to Ballarat in November, and next February, we’re going to Bairnsdale.”

O’Neill said Horsham Rural City Council had been supportive of the tournament.

“Horsham’s council has been amazing,” he said.

“They’ve given us a banner to put up, they have been so obliging. We’ve been very lucky to have them support us.” 

Horsham Mayor Ian Ross said hosting the tournament was a great opportunity to showcase the town’s hospitality and sporting infrastructure.

“Horsham has built a strong reputation for delivering successful regional sporting events,” he said.

“The tournament has attracted hundreds of visitors to Horsham, offering a timely boost to the local economy and tourism sector.”

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