SRAM bid to host world meet

09/08/1997

THE Squash Rackets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) are keen to host the
next World Junior Squash Championships in 1999.
"The superb display by our girls in Rio de Janeiro has prompted SRAM to
consider bidding for the World Cup, and if we get the greenlight from the
Sports Ministry, Malaysia would most likely win their first gold medal in
the World Cup in 1999," said SRAM president Datuk Alex Lee yesterday.
Since its inception 14 years ago, the gold has been shared between
England and Australia.
Malaysia became the first Asian team to reach the semifinals in this
biennial World Women's Junior tournament.
"Leong Siu Lynn, Nicol David and Daphine Ting have opened a new chapter
in the world of squash and SRAM will request the National Sports Council
to reward the trio if they manage a top-three finish," added Lee.
If Malaysia win the bid to host the World Cup, Siu Lynn, Nicol and
Daphine would still be eligible to play. Nicol, 14, is available to play
in two more World Cups.
Meanwhile, the Dunlop-Milo Malaysian Junior Open Championships on Aug
14-17 at the Jalan Duta courts has attracted record entries.
SRAM have received 77 foreign entries from 13 countries with the biggest
coming from India who are sending 19 players, followed by Argentina with
13.
Holland will send their top ranked players Tommy Berden and Dylan Bennet
who are European No 1 in the Under-19 and Under-13 categories
respectively.
Pakistan will send their top Under-19 Zubair Khan while Argentina will
be spearheaded by top national player Jorge Gutierra Keen. The local
challenge will be led by Michael Soo, Azlan Iskandar, Aaron Soyza, Nicol
and Daphine.
(END)