Two members of Radlett Lawn Tennis & Squash Club have won their categories at one of the world’s most prestigious competitions.
Jillian Lilico (left photo, left) and James Ockwell (left photo, right) competed at the British Open Masters Squash Championships and won their respective categories of the Women’s Over 55 and Men’s Over 65.
Both delivered “outstanding” 3-0 victories in the finals, which took place in Birmingham from Wednesday, June 4, to Sunday, June 8.
Speaking with RADLETTnews, RLTSC’s head squash coach Lee Rossiter (left photo, centre) explained: “My reaction was one of immense pride and excitement. I actually travelled up to Solihull on the Sunday morning to surprise them and watch their finals, so to see their hard work culminate in such dominant victories was incredibly rewarding. They truly delivered great performances all around.”
The event chairman’s report found that Jillian “produced a wonderfully controlled game”. It was her first major title.
Meanwhile, James was said to be “very in form”, coming first in a group that featured “upsets galore”. It was James’s first British Open Championship, which the chairman described as “long overdue”.
James and Jillian undertook a six-week intensive program with Lee leading up to the championship, including dedicated squash coaching sessions and rigorous strength and conditioning.
Lee added: “Their commitment and discipline throughout this period were exceptional, and it clearly paid off on court.
“While I can’t speak for them directly regarding their specific individual goals, I can say that they are both highly motivated athletes. I look forward to continuing to work with them again for the next event, building on this incredible success.”
In squash, Masters events are for players aged 35 and over. Participants are sorted into male and female categories with five-year age groups.
On social media, England Squash Masters wrote: “Thank you to our hosts Solihull Arden Club and West Warwickshire Sports Complex and to all our players and those who have supported throughout the last five days!”
Lee offers coaching in squash, racketball, padel, and pickleball. Anyone in the Radlett area can contact him on 07772 140121 or via email at rossiter.in2@gmail.com to find out more.
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