New Zealand to Host 2013 World Squash AGM

Another chapter in New Zealand's proud history of being at the forefront of administration in World Squash.

Christchurch has won the bid to host the 2013 World Squash Federation AGM in October next year.  A who's who of squash officials from around the world are expected to attend, including WSF President Nagasamy Ramachandran as well as vice presidents Heather Deayton, Mohamed El Menshawy and Chris Stahl.  There will also be a couple of significant attendees from New Zealand in former WSF Emeritus President Susie Simcock and former WSF vice president Gerard DeCourcy.  Up to 50 countries are expected to be represented.

New Zealand has a proud history in squash administration, as one of the founding members of the International Squash Rackets Association (now the WSF).  The country has a reputation for delivering very successful and high quality squash events, backed by experienced and extremely capable people, who have also been part of the bid for the AGM.

Squash New Zealand CEO Jim O'Grady hails from Canterbury and is thrilled Christchurch has been given the opportunity to host such an important event.

"Christchurch has previously hosted two World Championships with great success.  The city has the personnel and the experience to successfully stage the World Squash Federation annual general meeting and an event of this calibre will have a very positive effect on a sporting community recovering from the recent devastating earthquakes".

Squash New Zealand has received high powered support for the bid, with Sport NZ CEO Peter MisKimmin and Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker providing written submissions for the tender document.  Both reiterated Jim O'Grady's thoughts on the positive impact the event would have on the Christchurch people following the earthquakes.

Jim O'Grady says the overall support for the bid has been fantastic. 

"Sport NZ, local government, Canterbury Tourism, Sport Canterbury, business sponsors and the Canterbury squash community have all rallied to the cause which is outstanding".

The World Squash Federation AGM will be held in Christchurch from October 23-26, 2013.

For more information Jim O'Grady CEO Squash New Zealand 021 875 203