Cayman’s squash players displayed skill and determination in bringing home medals and trophies from the Caribbean Squash Association Senior Championship, held in Guyana.
The team of 13 athletes collectively won 12 medals, in addition to earning third overall as a nation at the tournament, held from 18-24 Aug.
One of the many standout performances came in the men’s doubles, where Cameron Stafford and Julian Jervis defended their title in the final against Barbados, winning 11-10, 11-7.
Jervis, who had the last hit of the game – a cheeky but strategic touch of the ball that the Bajans were unable to reach – told the Compass upon arriving home Sunday that the victory was a testament to the chemistry between him and his partner on the court and the team as a whole.
“I think there’s a sense of camaraderie with the team; something unique and special,” Jervis said. “It’s just fun, it’s a blessing and I’m happy to be a part of it.”
Jervis also competed in the final of the men’s individual event where he was bested by a familiar foe.
“I especially had an ambitious goal this year of making it to the finals for the first time ever,” Jervis said, noting that it was something dreamt of doing as a kid.
“I was able to do that this year but, unfortunately, I lost out to Khamal Cumberbatch from Barbados; I’ve lost to him three years in a row. I actually didn’t even drop a game until the final day. So hopefully next year I can one up that.”
Stafford took fourth in the men’s individual event. Both Stafford and Jervis contributed to the men’s team, which also included Jace Jervis.
“Overall, we did pretty good,” Stafford told the Compass, noting that considering he had to play through a groin injury he sustained three weeks before the competition, he was very proud.
“I’ve been trying to ice it, using ibuprofen and all that and trying to remain strong mentally. You just have to keep going; if I have to go and play with one leg I would … I was surprised that I made it as far as I did.
The Cayman women’s team of Emma Turnbull, Kali MacLean, Michaela Janse van Rensburg, Caroline Laing and Courtney Stafford helped towards a third-place finish.
Laing also competed in the mixed doubles alongside Jake Kelly, with the pair earning third place.
The bronze medal haul continued, this time in the women’s doubles, courtesy of Turnbull and van Rensburg.
Margit Daugela finished strong for Cayman when she swung her way to gold in the 50+ group.
Lori-Ann Foley earned another second-place finish for Cayman in the women’s 40+ category before Marion Goodall took silver in the 60+ division.
Cayman also secured two podium placements in the plate section of the tournament, with both Jace Jervis and van Rensburg earning silver for their individual events.
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