Canadian Squash Players Dominate the CJO, Taking Home 13 Medals Overall

Ottawa, Ontario —The Dunlop Canadian Junior Open took place from December 7-10, 2013, following the celebration of Mark Sachvie’s life at The Club at White Oaks in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.  Mark was the President of Squash Ontario and the Canadian Junior Open Tournament Director, having hosted 10 over his illustrious career. It was only appropriate to celebrate his life and contributions to the game, and pay tribute to Mark at the beginning and throughout the tournament.

Ottawa, Ontario —The Dunlop Canadian Junior Open took place from December 7-10, 2013, following the celebration of Mark Sachvie’s life at The Club at White Oaks in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.  Mark was the President of Squash Ontario and the Canadian Junior Open Tournament Director, having hosted 10 over his illustrious career. It was only appropriate to celebrate his life and contributions to the game, and pay tribute to Mark at the beginning and throughout the tournament.

This event featured over 265 participants from 16 countries around the world, including England, Mexico, Colombia, Bermuda, South Africa, and New Zealand. In the U13 divisions, the Canadians fell short of achieving a gold medal, but still performed extremely well, with Marlow Benson capturing herself a silver medal, while Matthew Ferris and Charlotte Orcutt took home bronze medals. Canadians dominated the U15 Boys and Girls divisions, with Akasham Rajagopaul and Nicole Kendall capturing both titles. Amy Commisso, Hannah Blatt, and Mariam Mansoor, all Canadian, closed out the top four for the U15 Girls. The Canadians fell short in their run for the gold in both the Boys and Girls U17 divisions. However, Chloe Chemtob was successful in winning herself a silver medal, while Carter Robitaille and Sophie Mehta competed and attained their bronze medals. David Baillargeon competed hard and ended up finishing within the top three in the U19 Boys division, bringing home a bronze medal. The Canadians again, dominated the U19 Girls division. Toronto’s Alyssa Mehta took home a gold medal, while Alison Richmond won herself a silver medal.

Squash Canada Executive Director Danny Da Costa said, “This year’s results at the Canadian Junior Open is a testament to the hard work being down by our talented squash professionals and athletes.  We hope to continue to build the base of our development pyramid for many years to come."

The event capped off a successful though challenging week for Squash Canada. Every year, the Canadian Junior Open brings together top junior competitors from around the world to compete and develop long-lasting friendships. Squash Canada would like to thank the team White Oaks Resort & Spa for hosting this year’s event, title sponsor Dunlop Sports, supporting sponsor Squash Ontario along with the many volunteers, who are always so supportive and contribute greatly to the event’s success.

Canada’s medal count: Gold 3, Silver 4, Bronze 6