Squash tournament proves a smash hit

SINGLES: Paul Coll and Rex Hedrick compete in the finals. PHOTO: SUPPLIED

Kiwi squash player Paul Coll has claimed the title at the Fitzherbert Rowe Lawyers New Zealand International Classic held last weekend.

The Palmerston North Squash Gym hosted the competition which saw Coll beat Australia's Rex Hedrick in the finals.

The women's final was played prior to the final round, and saw Wellington's Emma Millar take on local teenage prodigy Kaitlyn Watts.

Coll was ecstatic with his win and said the fast-paced game had left his lungs really feeling it.

"I was able to recover between points and I was glad to come out on top in the three games," he said.

"It was my first win over Rex and I have played him a fair bit, he used to dominate when I played the Aussie circuit."

Coll will be competing in the next competition series held in Christchurch this week. He will be looking to claim another title win in front of his home fans.

Competition director Sam Crawford said the Palmerston North event was fantastic and all players had performed well.

"It was a great opportunity for all local players to play at home and earn world-ranking points. Every year the Palmerston North team does an amazing job at hosting the event."

Palmerston North Squash Gym president Ed Burston said the numbers were good this year and they hoped the event would return again next year.

"The professionals enjoyed their time in Palmerston North.

"The event is a really good way to bring people from all over the world and New Zealand to our city."

There are three series running in conjunction with this event: Palmerston North held the first event, Christchurch is holding the second and Invercargill will host the last.