Scott retains his title in Highlands and Islands squash championship at Wick
Orkney's Finlay Scott secured back-to-back titles in the two-day 2022 Highlands and Islands Squash Association (HISA) championship held at Wick.
Players from across Scotland were welcomed to the town's recently refurbished squash club over the weekend of December 10/11. Some had travelled from as far as Edinburgh and Aberdeen, along with a strong showing from Caithness and Orkney – including Scott, the defending champion.
The action began early on the Saturday morning with qualifying rounds to decide in which of the four divisions the players would be placed for the remainder of the weekend's matches. The four divisions allowed players of similar abilities to be grouped together – ensuring tough, competitive matches for all across the course of the weekend.
After a long day of squash, many players were looking forward to relaxing and refuelling at the evening meal and social event in the Norseman Hotel with entertainment provided by local band Doon Major.
Another early start on the Sunday culminated in the semi-finals and finals for each division, with all matches providing thrilling entertainment for the spectators.
Division One produced a rematch of the previous year’s final between Garry McKay and Finlay Scott, with McKay gaining an early advantage as he won the first game 11-3.
However, Scott regrouped between games and came back onto court taking the fight to McKay. The Orcadian upped his pace and accuracy to win the next three games to emerge as the 2022 HISA champion.
The Division Two final was between Thurso player William Steven and Nairn's Harry Jack, with Steven winning a close-fought encounter by three games to two.
The Division Three final featured Thurso players Alistair Miller and Ryan Sinclair, with Miller winning 3-0.
Division Four saw Wick player James Georgeson taking first place over Thurso's Gavin Manson.
Wick Squash Club, located within Harmsworth Park, has an open night every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm at which new players are welcome to come along to try squash. Club members are always on hand to offer some pointers and encouragement in a friendly and welcoming environment.
Anyone wishing further information, or to arrange a visit at another time, can contact the club through its Facebook page.