Masters Q&A: Squash queen Sarah Fitz-Gerald preaches 'quality, not quantity'

Sarah Fitz-Gerald of Australia v Stephanie Brind of England in the quarterfinals of the women's singles at the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games. Photo/Getty Images

SARAH FITZ-GERALD
Squash
Age 48

Aussie Sarah Fitz-Gerald dominated international women's squash in the post-Susan Devoy era, through the late-1990s.

She won five individual world titles and seven team championships with Australia, while also capturing a Commonwealth Games singles gold medal at Manchester 2002.

Fitz-Gerald served as chairwoman and president of the Women's International Squash Players Association from 1991-2002, and in 2004, she was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia for her services to women's squash.

In 2010, she was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and is now an ambassador for this month's World Masters Games in Auckland.

What's the one thing that motivates you each day to get out and train?
The chance to win a world title and not get an injury at the event, especially when that elusive title is so close you can almost touch it.

If you had one piece of advice for Games athletes, what would it be?
As we are all masters, so our bodies need consistency in preparation with quality, not quantity.

What's the most important consideration or "must have" on game day?
Respect for your opponent.

What is your competition goal for WMG2017?
I'm hoping to walk away with a win, great memories, a few photos and a smile on my face.

The World Masters Games squash competition runs from April 22-30 at the North Shore Squash Club, Shea Terrace, Takapuna.